Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with bacon is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor! Made with rotini pasta, juicy chicken, fresh romaine, and a blend of Caesar and Italian dressing, it’s perfect for meal prep, summer cookouts, or quick dinners!
Be sure to check out this Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad and this Tortellini Pasta Salad while you’re here too!
Creamy Pasta Salad
This is one of those recipes that feels a little fancy but comes together with simple, everyday ingredients which is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you need something quick to bring to a gathering. And listen… the bacon takes it over the top every single time!
Ingredients for caesar pasta salad
- Rotini pasta: he spiral shape holds onto all that creamy dressing so every bite is packed with flavor
- Pre-cooked chicken breast: Makes this recipe quick and easy while adding lean protein
- Bacon: Brings that smoky, crispy bite that takes this salad to the next level
- Romaine lettuce: Adds freshness and crunch to balance the creamy pasta
- Caesar dressing: The base of the flavor, rich, creamy, and slightly tangy. Add a touch of Italian dressing for a zesty kick
- Shredded parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
The best part about this salad is how quick it comes together. Here’s how you make it:
Bring seasoned water to a boil
Add pasta and cook until al dente
Chop your chicken breast
Chop up your bacon
Add cooked and cooled pasta, romaine lettuce, chicken, and bacon to a large bowl.
Mix caesar dressing and Italian dressing together
Once the dressing is mixed and you add all of the ingredients to a bowl, then drizzle the dressing right over the top. Mix it up well and add in the shredded parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips
Let the pasta cool completely before mixing so the lettuce stays crisp
Don’t overdress it: start with less dressing and add more as needed
Add lettuce right before serving if making ahead to keep it fresh
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor
A little extra black pepper goes a long way in boosting flavor
Chill before serving so everything can soak up that dressing
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap rotini for penne or bowtie pasta
- Use grilled chicken for extra flavor
- Add cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop
- Toss in croutons for extra crunch
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter option
FAQ
Can I make chicken caesar pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just store the lettuce separately and mix it in right before serving to keep it crisp.
How long does chicken caesar pasta salad last in the fridge?
It will last up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Is this Caesar Pasta Salad served cold or warm?
Chicken caesar pasta salad is best served cold or chilled.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon Chicken bouillon optional to season water
- 2 cups Chicken breast pre-cooked, chopped
- 4 slices Bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups Romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil, season the water with the chicken bouillon (optional but recommended). Add the pasta and let it boil for about 7 minutes, or until it is just al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside so that it can cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, and romaine lettuce.
- Now sprinkle in the parmesan cheese. Pour in the Caesar dressing and Italian dressing, and gently toss everything together until it is all evenly combined and coated with the dressing.
- Season your pasta salad with black pepper, mix well. Then cover your bowl with an airtight lid or wrap, and chill for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
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