Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
You already know a classic Caesar salad never misses… but this version? It’s on a whole different level. This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is rich, creamy, crunchy, and loaded with layers of flavor in every single bite. You’ve got juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs, crispy bacon, tender pasta, and fresh romaine all tossed in a bold, garlicky Caesar dressing made from scratch. Then comes the real game changer… buttery garlic parmesan breadcrumbs that bring that irresistible crunch and take this dish straight over the top. It’s indulgent, refreshing, and packed with texture, making it perfect for everything from casual lunches to a centerpiece dish that steals the show. This is the kind of recipe you don’t just eat… you savor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb short pasta cooked according to instructions
- 2 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cooked bacon chopped
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese shaved
Juicy Chicken Thighs
- 1-2 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1 tsp garlic paste or powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp oregano dried
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Garlic Parm Breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Creamy Caesar Dressing
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shaved
- 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 3-4 anchovy fillets
- 1 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Creamy Caesar Dressing
- In a blender (or a tall container if using an immersion blender) or food processor, add all ingredients listed under “Creamy Caesar Dressing” and blend until smooth.
- Season with salt to taste. Once fully incorporated, set in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Juicy Chicken Thighs
- In a large bowl, add all ingredients listed under “Juicy Chicken Thighs” and mix until fully combined.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and sear the seasoned chicken thighs on both sides. Allow to cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Garlic Parm Breadcrumbs
- To a baking pan, add all ingredients listed under “Garlic Parm Breadcrumbs” EXCEPT for the Parmesan cheese. Mix to combine, then bake in the oven at 400°F for 4-5 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Once out of the oven, mix in the Parmesan cheese and set aside.
Assemble
- In a large salad bowl, add the cooked pasta of your choice, chopped romaine lettuce, the cooked chicken, bacon, shaved Parmesan, the garlic parm breadcrumbs, and finally the creamy Caesar dressing.
- Give it a good toss, serve with additional dressing, and enjoy!