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As the warm months roll in, pasta salads emerge as a quintessential dish for summer gatherings, family picnics, and barbecues. Their versatility makes them a favorite for home cooks and professional chefs alike, easily adapting to a variety of flavor profiles and dietary preferences. Among the many recipes featuring this beloved dish, the Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad stands out as a delicious, hearty option that satisfies both the palate and the appetite.

Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Get ready for summer with the refreshing Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad! Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings, this salad blends rotini pasta, tender chicken, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons all drizzled with a creamy Caesar dressing. It's easy to customize for any dietary preference, making it a versatile dish for all occasions. Enjoy a deliciously satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. rotini or fusilli pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup crispy bacon bits

¼ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

¼ cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

    Prepare Chicken: If using leftover chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking new chicken, season with salt and pepper and grill or sauté until cooked through. Allow to cool and then chop.

      Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, add the Caesar dressing. If using homemade dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if desired) in a small bowl before adding to the larger bowl.

        Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and crispy bacon bits. Toss well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated with dressing.

          Season & Serve: Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently fold in croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.

            Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavors, cover and refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together nicely.

              Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates, and enjoy your Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings