Creating a delicious Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad involves blending the flavors of traditional Caesar salad with the heartiness of pasta and grilled chicken. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, store-bought or homemade (recipe below)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Romaine lettuce leaves, chopped (optional, for serving)
- Croutons, for garnish (optional)
For the Caesar Dressing (if making from scratch):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season and Grill: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing (if homemade):
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, grilled chicken strips, Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and chopped fresh basil. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, serve the pasta salad over chopped romaine lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and croutons if desired. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente (firm to the bite) to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
- Grill Chicken Thoroughly: Grill the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Adjust Dressing Consistency: If the Caesar dressing is too thick, thin it out with a little water or additional lemon juice.
Variations:
- Add Crunch: Include diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and freshness.
- Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked bacon bits or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta for regular penne to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion:
This Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines the best of Caesar salad flavors with the heartiness of pasta and grilled chicken, making it a satisfying and flavorful dish for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy dressing, savory chicken, and fresh vegetables in every bite!