Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Let the chicken cool before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Just before serving, gently fold in the croutons and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and add chopped romaine lettuce if you want more crunch.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature as a side dish or main course.
Cook Notes
Caesar Dressing: For a more robust flavor, use a homemade Caesar dressing or a high-quality store-bought option.
Chicken: Grilled chicken adds extra flavor, but rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works just as well for convenience.
Croutons: Add croutons right before serving to keep them crispy. You can also use garlic or Parmesan-flavored croutons for more flavor.
Variations
Bacon Caesar Pasta Salad: Add crumbled bacon for extra savory crunch.
Avocado Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: Dice fresh avocado and gently mix it into the salad for a creamy addition.
Vegetarian Caesar Pasta Salad: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to 1 day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add the croutons just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad dries out, you can add a little more Caesar dressing before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta is great for this dish, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli.
Can I use a different dressing?
If you’re not a fan of Caesar dressing, you can substitute it with ranch, Italian, or a balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
Chicken Caesar Bowtie Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, the combination of Caesar dressing, tender chicken, and bowtie pasta will make it a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this hearty, delicious salad!
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