Delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta

This crowd-pleasing Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe emerged from a need to create a heat-resistant dish for summer gatherings. The combination proved so popular that it vanished within minutes at a recent potluck, with multiple guests requesting the recipe. Now it's become a regular household favorite due to its simplicity and universal appeal.

This versatile dish has even won over picky eaters, converting salad skeptics into enthusiastic fans with its delicious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients List

• Chicken: Tenderloins or diced boneless breasts, alternatively rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Bacon: Fresh-cooked, crispy strips for authentic flavor and crunch
• Pasta: Ridged rotini or farfalle to capture dressing effectively
• Romaine: Fresh hearts for optimal crunch and moisture control
• Parmesan: Freshly grated block cheese for superior flavor
• Croutons: Garlic-seasoned, lightly crushed for easier eating
• Salad Supreme Seasoning: Essential flavor enhancer
• Dressings: Equal parts caesar and ranch for optimal coating

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Preparation Method

Protein Preparation

Cook bacon until crispy, then utilize the rendered fat combined with olive oil for cooking seasoned, patted-dry chicken pieces.

Pasta Technique

Cook pasta to al dente, immediately cool under running water, and toss with a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Assembly Strategy

Combine all ingredients except romaine and croutons initially. This allows flavors to develop while maintaining optimal texture. Add the final components just before serving.

Finishing Touches

Garnish with fresh parmesan shavings and Salad Supreme seasoning for enhanced presentation and flavor.

The distinctive dressing combination originated from necessity but became intentional, creating a perfect balance of garlic and herb flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a standalone meal or accompanied by fresh fruit. Present in a large wooden bowl for gatherings, with extra dressing available. Ideal for transport to outdoor events due to its stable ingredients.

Variations

Consider adding cherry tomatoes, substituting shrimp for chicken, incorporating avocado, or creating a vegetarian version with chickpeas and additional vegetables.

Storage Guidelines

Separate storage of components enables convenient meal prep. Store dressed base mixture separately from crisp elements for optimal freshness and texture preservation.

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Expert Recommendations

• Use well-salted pasta water for proper seasoning
• Cut romaine into manageable, bite-sized portions
• Adjust dressing consistency for leftover servings

This elevated pasta salad combines classic elements in a thoughtfully crafted blend of textures and flavors, creating a satisfying and reliable dish suitable for various occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep it in a sealed container, but wait to add the romaine and croutons until just before eating to keep them from going soggy.

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this dish.

→ What’s in Salad Supreme seasoning?

It’s a mix that includes Romano cheese, sesame and poppy seeds, paprika, and other spices. If you don’t have it, mix some Italian seasoning with a sprinkle of paprika as a substitute.

→ Can I prepare it in advance?

Sure! Prep everything ahead, but keep the croutons and romaine separate until you’re ready to serve to keep them fresh.

→ What can I use in place of bacon?

Try turkey bacon for a lighter option, or if you want a vegetarian alternative, crispy chickpeas are a tasty replacement.