Go Back
Viral Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Viral Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe - Sweet Mama's Kitchen

Summer is here, and with it comes a surge of gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. That means it’s time to roll out the pasta salad varieties that can make a meal feel festive. 
One of the crowd-pleasers that I can't stop raving about is the Viral Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. It takes the classic Caesar salad up a notch by tossing it in tender fusilli pasta, chopped chicken, and a mouthwatering homemade dressing. 
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I strive for recipes that are simple yet impressive. Let's explore how to whip up this delicious dish, perfect for feeding family and friends while keeping everyone nourished and satisfied.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 3 slices sourdough bread, cubed
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped about 4 cups
  • 1 ½–2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a smoky flavor boost
For the Dressing:
  • cup avocado mayonnaise
  • cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon honey optional, for a hint of sweetness

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fusilli pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for an al dente texture; it’ll hold better when mixed with the dressing. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Croutons
  1. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F. Toss the cubed sourdough bread with olive oil and a pinch of salt on a baking sheet. Spread the cubes out evenly. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, chop it up and set it aside. If you're cooking raw chicken, season it lightly with salt and pepper. Bake it in the oven or pan-sear it until fully cooked. Let it cool for a bit before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the avocado mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, capers, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Add black pepper and honey if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped lettuce, croutons, and chicken. Pour the dressing over the mixture. Toss everything gently until well-coated but careful not to break the pasta or croutons.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
  1. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the contents to meld together beautifully. When ready to serve, give it a gentle toss and top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Cook Pasta Just Right: Aim for al dente; it helps the pasta hold up in the salad.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce and good-quality chicken make a noticeable difference.
  • Customize the Veggies: Feel free to throw in any vegetables you love, such as cherry tomatoes or cucumbers.
  • Balance the Dressing: Taste and tweak your dressing. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice.
  • Add Some Crunch: Think of including nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added texture