Healthy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A delicious and nutritious twist on the classic Caesar salad, featuring grilled chicken, whole wheat pasta, and a creamy dressing.
Equipment
- 1 grill or grill pan for cooking chicken
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Tongs for tossing salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 6 cups Romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Caesar Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill each side for 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken. Toss with the prepared Caesar dressing until well coated.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently toss to distribute evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor. Ingredient Substitutions: Try gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. How to Serve: Serve chilled, with a side of crusty bread. Storage & Freshness: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dressing and chicken a day in advance for quicker assembly.