Meal Prep Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A high-protein, Italian-inspired pasta salad perfect for meal prep. Grilled chicken, rotini pasta, and Caesar dressing create a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Equipment
- 1 grill pan for grilling chicken
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.
- Boil rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and Caesar dressing. Toss until well mixed.
Serving
- Divide salad into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately for best texture.
Storage
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Notes
Pro Tips: To enhance the flavor, try adding a few anchovies to the dressing if you like a more traditional Caesar taste. Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free rotini if needed. Substitute grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. How to Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature, perfect for lunch or as a side dish. Storage & Freshness: Keep the salad and dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components ahead of time and combine just before serving for best results.