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Flavorful Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

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A quick and easy grilled chicken Caesar pasta salad combining smoky chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and al dente penne pasta, perfect for summer meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (preferably organic or free-range)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 8 ounces penne pasta (use gluten-free penne if needed)
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce (washed and dried)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish
  • ½ cup crunchy croutons (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side (12-14 minutes total) until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water. Drain well.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken strips, chopped romaine, and cherry tomatoes if using. Pour dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle shaved Parmesan and crunchy croutons on top. Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors. Add croutons just before serving if chilled.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Don’t overdress the salad to keep it crisp. For dairy-free, use vegan mayo and omit cheese. For low-carb, substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, Caesar salad, pasta salad, summer recipe, easy dinner, penne pasta, smoky chicken, creamy dressing

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/flavorful-grilled-chicken-caesar-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-for-summer-meals/