Pesto Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Pesto Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that effortlessly fuses classic Caesar salad elements with fresh basil pesto. This delightful pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or an easy weeknight dinner, offering a burst of colors and textures in every bite. With juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and a creamy dressing, this dish not only satisfies but also impresses at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Instructions
- 1. Grill Chicken: Preheat the grill over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for about 6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let cool before slicing.
- 2. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese.
- 4. Dress Salad: Drizzle with basil pesto and Caesar dressing. Toss gently until well-coated.
- 5. Serve: Plate the salad and garnish with additional Parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Find it online: https://carmenrecipes.com/pesto-chicken-caesar-pasta-salad/