This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is perfect for potlucks, backyard barbecues, or casual gatherings. It combines a creamy, flavorful Caesar-style dressing with tender pasta, crisp Romaine, juicy tomatoes, and grilled chicken. Quick to prepare and easy to transport, this crowd-pleaser can be made ahead and chilled until serving.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
(Serves 10)
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 large clove garlic, pressed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 anchovies, finely minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (use 2 teaspoons if not using anchovies)
- 1 pound penne pasta, cooked al dente and rinsed under cold water
- 6 large leaves Romaine lettuce, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 green onions, sliced
- ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
- 1½ cups croutons
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, pressed garlic, lemon juice, minced anchovies (if using), and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Place the cooked and cooled pasta in a large bowl. Add half of the dressing and toss to coat evenly. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Remove the pasta from the fridge and add the sliced Romaine, halved grape tomatoes, sliced green onions, shredded Parmesan, diced grilled chicken, and croutons. Pour in the remaining dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired.
- Serve immediately for a crisp texture, or chill for up to an hour before serving. If storing leftovers, keep croutons separate until ready to serve to preserve their crunch.
