Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A creamy and satisfying Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combining tender pasta, crispy bacon, and fresh greens.
Ingredients
Pasta and Dressing
- 1 cup dry pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, or more to taste
Protein and Toppings
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked rotisserie chicken, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (optional)
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce
Seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp bacon grease * Save from cooking bacon
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, run under cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
Cooking the Bacon
- Cook bacon, reserving 1 tbsp of the grease/drippings.
Mixing the Salad
- Transfer cooled pasta to a bowl and toss with the bacon drippings until evenly combined.
- Add in all other ingredients and stir thoroughly until evenly mixed.
- Add more dressing if necessary, to taste, and toss everything to evenly coat.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the dressing. Cook pasta al dente for firmer texture.