Go Back
Delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with grilled chicken and romaine lettuce.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A comforting and quick Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that combines tender pasta, rotisserie chicken, and a creamy Caesar dressing, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 8 oz uncooked pasta (rotini or penne) Rotini or penne work wonderfully.
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise This is the creamy base of the dressing.
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Savory, salty backbone of the Caesar flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard Adds a gentle tang and body to the dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brightens the dressing.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Deepens the umami notes.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Fresh or jarred.
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste Optional but classic — adds savory depth.
  • 2 hearts of Romaine, chopped For crunch and freshness.
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped cooked chicken breasts For protein.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
Optional add-ons
  • Croutons Store-bought or homemade — great for crunch.
  • Extra Parmesan cheese For serving — thin shavings or a sprinkle.
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved For color and a touch of sweetness.
  • Sliced cucumbers or blanched asparagus For extra freshness.
  • Roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts For Mediterranean flair.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil For bright garnish.

Method
 

Make the dressing
  1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and slightly glossy.
  2. Add Worcestershire sauce and minced garlic. Stir to incorporate evenly.
  3. Add anchovy paste, mixing well so it dissolves.
  4. Fold in Parmesan cheese to thicken the dressing.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Set aside while you cook the pasta.
Make the pasta salad
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add pasta.
  2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-11 minutes. Don't overcook!
  3. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and run under cool water to stop cooking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with shredded chicken.
  5. Add chopped Romaine, tossing gently.
  6. Pour prepared dressing over salad, tossing to coat.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add croutons just before serving.

Notes

This pasta salad is flexible — serve warm or chilled. It can be made ahead; store components separately in the fridge and combine before serving.