Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe (Gluten Free)
This easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe combines everything you love about a classic Caesar with the heartiness of a pasta salad. Juicy chicken, crisp romaine, and a creamy homemade dressing come together in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes a refreshing summer lunch or dinner. Leave out the chicken and it doubles as a crowd-pleasing side salad!
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups chicken diced or shredded
- 1 box gluten free pasta
- 2 cups lettuce
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Homemade Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Spicy brown mustard
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 lemon squeezed
- 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese
- Salt Pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a shallow dish. Season the chicken breasts with garlic, salt and pepper.
- Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to cool. Slice it into thin strips for the salad.
- Make the dressing by adding all the ingredients to a small bowl and whisking them together.
- Cook the pasta according to the box directions. Once it has finished cooking, run it under cold water and then drain it. Let it cool in the refrigerator for 1 hour if you like it really cold.
- Assemble the salad by adding the following to a large bowl: The pasta, chopped chicken and greens.
- To serve, divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top them with salad dressing and enjoy!
Notes
- Use gluten free pasta that holds its shape well, like brown rice or corn-based penne or fusilli.
- Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great for a quick shortcut.
- Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and keep it from sticking.
- Add dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Refresh with a little lemon juice or olive oil if needed.