If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful and satisfying dish that screams summer, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is perfect! It’s a twist on a classic, perfect for everything from BBQs and summer parties to a simple weeknight dinner or a fun lunch. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing combination of protein and carbs, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion. We’re talking tender grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, crispy chickpeas and a creamy dressing that takes this dish to the next level. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, enjoying it as a spring dinner or just want something fun and delicious, this pasta salad is guaranteed to be a hit. If you love pasta salad, you will also love my spring pasta salad, buffalo chicken pasta salad and Big Mac pasta salad!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad
It’s the perfect dish for your summer BBQ!
It’s easily made gluten free and dairy free.
This pasta is a twist on the classic Caesar salad!
It is so flavorful and creamy.
This dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
It’s easily made in under 30 minutes!
This pasta salad has protein, carbs, greens and healthy fat!
Equipment Needed
All you need to make this chicken Caesar pasta salad is a pot and a bowl.
Ingredients Needed
Pasta: I used gluten free pasta because I’m gluten free! My favorite pasta brand is Jovial! It is made with organic brown rice.
Chicken: Chopped chicken makes a great addition to this pasta salad. It adds protein and flavor! This is also a great way to use up leftover chicken breasts. For a shortcut, you can also use rotisserie chicken or purchase cooked chicken breasts from the grocery store.
Lettuce: Shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch to this dish! I like to use romaine or butter lettuce.
Chickpeas: Crispy chickpeas are used in place of croutons in this recipe. They add some protein, fiber and minerals.
Caesar Dressing: I love using homemade caesar dressing. I always use my friend Karli’s recipe! You can also use store-bought.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Make pasta according to instructions on the box.
Step 3: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
Step 4: Pour over dressing and enjoy!
Storage
Store this chicken Caesar pasta salad in an airtight container for 3-4 days. This pasta salad tastes the best when served immediately if you are using gluten free pasta. You can prep the chicken, crispy chickpeas and dressing ahead of time if you are making them yourself!
Variations
Protein: I used chicken in this recipe, but you can also use salmon or steak as a protein!
Dressing: I used homemade Caesar dressing. You can also use store-bought dressing.
Toppings: If you are looking to level up this pasta salad, try adding bacon, pepperonis, sun-dried tomatoes or pumpkin seeds!
Croutons: I used crispy chickpeas as croutons. Feel free to use regular croutons instead or alongside the chickpeas!
How To Serve
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to serve it, keeping in mind different occasions:
As a Side Dish: This is its natural habitat! Serve it alongside grilled meats, burgers or hot dogs. Its creamy, cool nature complements hot-off-the-grill flavors perfectly.
Buffet Style: Place it in a large serving bowl at a buffet table, allowing guests to scoop as much as they’d like.
Individual Portions: For a more elegant touch at a casual gathering, serve individual portions in small bowls or mason jars.
Main Course: Serve it as a complete meal, especially for a fun dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch and portion it out into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Additions: Customize it further. Consider adding extra vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness and nutrients.
Garnish: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of dressing over the top for a visually appealing presentation.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Lettuce Cups: For a lighter option, serve individual portions in lettuce cups.
Layered Jars: For a visually appealing picnic or lunch, layer the ingredients in clear jars, starting with the dressing at the bottom.
Recipe FAQ
What other proteins could I use instead of chicken?
You could also use salmon or steak!
Can I make this lower carb?
This pasta salad can be made lower carb by using zoodles instead of pasta.
Is this recipe dairy free?
This recipe is dairy free as long as you use a dairy free dressing!
What other veggies can I add?
Try adding cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes and red peppers.
Can I make this vegetarian?
This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken. You can add extra chickpeas if you would like!
Can this pasta salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time, however it tastes best when served right away!
What should I serve with chicken Caesar pasta salad?
I love serving this pasta salad at a BBQ alongside burgers!
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these fun summer BBQ recipes next:
If you make this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations, so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Equipment
- 1 pot
- 1 bowl
Ingredients
- 1 box pasta gluten free
- 2 chicken breasts cooked
- 1 1/2 cups crispy chickpeas
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup caesar dressing
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Make pasta according to instructions on the box.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour over dressing and enjoy!
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