Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe

If you’re a fan of Caesar salad and hearty pasta dishes, this Chicken Caesar Pasta recipe brings the best of both worlds to your plate. Combining tender chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for busy days.

This recipe delivers a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s packed with the classic flavors of Caesar dressing, garlic, parmesan, and zesty lemon. It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or tweak the protein options to suit your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
2. Flavorful: The creamy Caesar sauce, paired with garlic and Parmesan, is a flavor explosion.
3. Versatile: Works well as a standalone dish or paired with a light salad or garlic bread.
4. Comforting and Wholesome: The ideal mix of hearty pasta and lean protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. If using fresh chicken, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 4–5 minutes per side).
3. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, and slice or shred into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Caesar Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine.
4. Stir in the Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
5. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss to coat the pasta and chicken evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual bowls.
2. Sprinkle crushed croutons over the top for added crunch.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor.
2. Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
3. Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
4. Prep Ahead: Cook and shred the chicken in advance to save time.

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
2. Swap Proteins: Replace chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different protein option.
3. Whole-Grain Pasta: Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a cohesive meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Offer a light dessert, such as lemon sorbet, to complement the richness of the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What Caesar dressing should I use?

Use your favorite store-bought dressing or make your own for a more customized flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

The pasta can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerate instead of freezing.

Why This Recipe Works

The Chicken Caesar Pasta recipe perfectly balances creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. The Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese create a rich and luxurious sauce, while the tender chicken and pasta make it a satisfying and hearty meal. The added touch of crushed croutons provides a delightful crunch, elevating this dish to restaurant-quality standards.

Conclusion

This Chicken Caesar Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity. Try it today and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!

Yield: 6

Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe

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If you're a fan of Caesar salad and hearty pasta dishes, this Chicken Caesar Pasta recipe brings the best of both worlds to your plate. Combining tender chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for busy days.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Pasta and Chicken:
• 12 ounces penne or bowtie pasta
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Caesar Dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Add-ins:
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
   
2. Prepare the Chicken
   While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding into bite-sized pieces.
   
3. Make the Caesar Dressing
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and anchovy paste (if using).
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a splash of pasta water if needed.
   
4. Assemble the Dish
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and Caesar dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
   Add cherry tomatoes, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese, mixing gently.
   
5. Serve
   Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
   Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled as a pasta salad.

Notes

Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or rotisserie chicken for a quick option.

Pasta Variations: Substitute the penne with rotini, farfalle, or even a whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist.