🥗🍗 Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with Penne

Hey there

Tonight, we’re merging two icons: chicken Caesar salad and pasta salad. Think tender penne pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a silky Parmesan dressing that clings to every bite. Perfect warm or cold, and guaranteed to become a meal prep hero.

🧺 You’ll Need (serves 3–4):

For the chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the pasta salad:

• 250g penne pasta

• 1 small Romaine lettuce (or baby gem), chopped

• 50g Parmesan shavings

• 100g cherry tomatoes, halved (optional but fresh)

• 2 slices sourdough or crusty bread (for croutons)

For the Caesar dressing:

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp Greek yoghurt or light sour cream

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Black pepper

👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Cook the pasta.
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to packet instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

2. Cook the chicken.
   Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Pan method: Sear over medium heat for 6–7 mins each side until golden and cooked through.

   • Air fryer method: Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 12–14 mins, flipping halfway.
     Rest 5 mins, then slice into strips.

3. Make the croutons.
   Dice bread into cubes. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toast in a dry pan or air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 4–5 mins until golden and crunchy.

4. Mix the dressing.
   In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, yoghurt, Parmesan, mustard, garlic, lemon juice, and a good grind of black pepper. Taste and adjust lemon or Parmesan as you like.

5. Assemble the salad.
   In a big bowl, combine cooled penne, chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and half the dressing. Toss to coat.

6. Finish & serve.
   Pile salad into bowls or plates. Top with sliced chicken, croutons, and extra Parmesan shavings. Drizzle with the remaining dressing.

🧡 Why You’ll Love It
✔️ Creamy, tangy Caesar flavour in every bite
✔️ Hearty enough for lunch or dinner
✔️ High-protein and meal-prep friendly
✔️ Delicious warm or chilled

📩 Before You Dash...
Save this recipe — it’s perfect for summer picnics or make-ahead lunches.

Stay creamy,
Love, Planet Food 🥗🍝💛