Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
From Zero to Hero: Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that will impress your family.
Per Serving
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Avocado oil as an alternative to olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 head of romaine lettuce chopped (an alternative to cos lettuce)
- 1 cup creamy Caesar dressing you can make your own or use a store-bought version
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 2 cups whole grain croutons for a healthier option
- 500 g whole wheat penne pasta
- 50 g grated pecorino Romano cheese or parmesan cheese
- Fresh chives chopped, for garnish
- Cherry Tomatoes Optional
- Croutons Optional
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the whole wheat penne pasta to the boiling water.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Set aside the cooked pasta.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Rub the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a bit of avocado oil to coat them.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika on each breast.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking tray.
- Roast the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce with the creamy Caesar dressing.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion, whole grain croutons, sliced roasted chicken, and cooked whole wheat penne pasta to the bowl.
- Toss all the ingredients together until they are well mixed and coated with the dressing.
Serve
- Portion the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad onto individual plates or into serving bowls.
- Sprinkle grated pecorino Romano cheese or fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of each serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh chives.
Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a quick and easy meal that’s both Yummy and easy to prepare can be difficult. If you’re looking for a recipe that embodies convenience without compromising on the flavour, check out our Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe. On this page, we’ll share not only the recipe but also some insights into the key ingredients that make it a standout dish on any table.
Key Ingredients and Their Health Benefits:
- Grilled Chicken: Tender and succulent, grilled chicken adds a healthy and substantial protein kick to our Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. It’s a lean source of protein that satisfies your hunger and keeps you feeling full for longer periods.
- Al Dente Pasta: The main part of this dish lies in the pasta, perfectly cooked to an al dente texture. Pasta is where all the flavours meld together, creating a blend of tastes and textures.
- Crisp Lettuce: The addition of fresh, crisp green lettuce not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of vitamins and minerals.
- Classic Caesar Dressing: The classic Caesar dressing brings a creamy, savoury depth to the salad, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Its tangy taste perfectly complements the grilled chicken and pasta.
Easy Preparation Steps:
Our Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a testament to the fact that gourmet meals need not be time-consuming. Follow these simple steps to create this awesome dish:
- Grill the Chicken: Season boneless chicken breasts with your preferred blend of spices and grill them to perfection. This step takes only minutes and infuses the salad with smoky flavours.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken grills, cook your choice of pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.
- Toss and Assemble: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced grilled chicken, and a generous helping of crisp greens. Drizzle the classic Caesar dressing and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve and Savour: Transfer the salad to serving plates, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons, and get ready to enjoy a gourmet experience that required minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
Our Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the fact that convenience and flavor can coexist harmoniously. With its wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is a reliable choice for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or any time you’re craving a satisfying yet hassle-free meal.
Pair your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with these great accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic complements the Caesar flavours while offering a satisfying contrast in texture.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled zucchini, bell green peppers, and asparagus adds a fresh and colourful touch to the meal.
- Soup: Serve alongside a light soup, such as tomato basil or minestrone, for a comforting and well-rounded dining experience.
- Bread Rolls: Soft and hearty bread rolls make a great side, allowing you to build mini sandwiches with the salad ingredients.
Conclusion:
In the realm of quick and easy meals, the Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a shining star. Its rich flavours, effortless preparation, and impressive nutritional profile make it a winning choice for both experienced cooks and beginners. Embrace the simplicity and revel in the delightful taste journey that this dish offers. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to a new culinary staple that’s destined to become a household favourite.
Try our Quick and Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad today and discover how easy it is to get extraordinary flavor.
For a healthy drink to go with pasta salad, why not try our Berry Juice.