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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

A delicious blend of tender chicken, crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing, tossed with pasta for a satisfying and refreshing salad perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz. uncooked pasta, such as rotini or penne
• 2 hearts of Romaine
• Shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped chicken breasts
• Croutons (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Whisk the Dressing Grab a medium-sized bowl and start by whisking together some Dijon mustard, a splash of fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, creamy mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a little anchovy paste. Take your time whisking until the mix is smooth and well-blended. This is your moment to enjoy the aroma that should have you dreaming of Caesar salads.

2. Step 2: Add Parmesan to the Mix With the dressing base ready, sprinkle in the finely grated Parmesan cheese along with a dash of pepper. Stir everything together, then set this flavorful concoction aside. This step is crucial for a rich, cheesy flavor that ties the dressing together beautifully.

3. Step 3: Cook the Pasta to Perfection Bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil, seasoning it generously with salt. Toss in your choice of pasta, perhaps rotini or penne, and let it cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, usually around 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and let it cool slightly as it sits in a large serving bowl.

4. Step 4: Prepare the Romaine and Chicken Now it's time to chop your Romaine hearts into bite-sized pieces, about an inch each. Mix these greens with the pasta, bringing a fresh crunch to your salad. Add your choice of shredded rotisserie chicken or some juicy chopped chicken breasts for a hearty protein element.

5. Step 5: Combine Everything Together Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and romaine mixture, tossing everything until each piece is well coated. This step is your chance to ensure every bite is as delicious as the last, with the dressing clinging to the pasta and lettuce perfectly.

6. Step 6: Garnish and Serve If you're a fan of croutons, this is the time to sprinkle them over the top for extra crunch. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch. Serve your salad immediately to enjoy it at its freshest, or cover and refrigerate for a cool, refreshing meal later.

Notes

Navigating the world of Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a breeze when you sidestep a few common pitfalls. One frequent hiccup is overcooking the pasta, leaving it mushy. To keep your pasta perfectly al dente, set a timer and taste test a minute or two before the package suggests.

Another misstep? Skipping the anchovy paste. Some folks shy away because of its bold flavor, but this ingredient adds depth to your dressing. Trust the process—it’s worth it!

And finally, take care with the salad’s balance. Too much dressing can overpower the fresh crunch of Romaine and tender chicken. Begin with a modest amount, toss, and add more as needed. Your taste buds will thank you!