What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Caesar Pasta?

To make Chicken Caesar Pasta, you will need cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini), grilled or roasted chicken breast, Romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons. Optional ingredients include garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and anchovies in the dressing for added flavor. Use freshly cooked pasta and chilled chicken to keep the salad tasty and fresh.

How do I make a simple Caesar dressing for Chicken Caesar Pasta?

A simple Caesar dressing can be made by whisking together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. For a traditional touch, add anchovy paste or finely chopped anchovies. Mix until smooth and creamy, then toss with the pasta, chicken, and lettuce for a flavorful coating.

Can I prepare Chicken Caesar Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Caesar Pasta ahead of time but keep the lettuce and croutons separate until just before serving to maintain their crisp texture. Store the pasta, chicken, and dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, combine all ingredients and toss gently to serve.

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Caesar Pasta?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best for Chicken Caesar Pasta because they hold the dressing well and mix easily with the chicken and lettuce. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair, which can become mushy when tossed with dressing.

How can I make Chicken Caesar Pasta healthier?

To make Chicken Caesar Pasta healthier, use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. Opt for grilled chicken breast with no added fat and use a lighter Caesar dressing or yogurt-based substitute. Increase the amount of fresh Romaine lettuce and reduce the amount of croutons to lower calories while maintaining flavor.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe Ready In One Pot Quick Meal

Name: Chicken Caesar Pasta
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – ½ cup Parmesan cheese; – 1 cup chicken broth, divided; – ¾ cup milk; – 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 1 large); – 3 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning; – 2 tablespoons olive oil; – 1 tablespoon butter; – 4 cloves garlic, minced; – 2 cups Caesar dressing; – 8 oz (half a pound) angel hair pasta; – 1 tablespoon capers; – 2 tablespoons lemon juice; – Freshly cracked pepper, to taste; – Fresh parsley, roughly chopped, for garnish

Description

🍗 This Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe is a simple, one-pot meal that combines creamy Caesar flavors with tender chicken and delicate angel hair pasta.
⏳ Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

– ½ cup Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup chicken broth, divided

– ¾ cup milk

– 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 1 large)

– 3 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 cups Caesar dressing

– 8 oz (half a pound) angel hair pasta

– 1 tablespoon capers

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

– Fresh parsley, roughly chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1-Slice each chicken breast in half to make thinner pieces and season both sides with 3 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning.

2-Place the chicken in a sealed bag with ¾ cup Caesar dressing and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

3-Shred ½ cup Parmesan cheese and set it aside at room temperature for easy mixing later.

4-Whisk ¼ cup Caesar dressing with ¾ cup milk and set it aside at near room temperature.

5-Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

6-Sear the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s golden, then remove it and let it rest for 5 minutes.

7-Cut the chicken into strips and return any drippings to the pan.

8-Reduce heat to medium, melt 1 tablespoon butter, and cook 4 cloves minced garlic for 1 minute.

9-Add ¾ cup chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then mix in the milk and Caesar dressing mixture and bring it to a boil.

10-Add 8 oz angel hair pasta, bending the noodles gently as they soften, and cook for 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

11-Stir in 1 tablespoon capers and reduce heat to low.

12-Gradually sprinkle the Parmesan cheese while tossing the pasta, then add the chicken strips and 2 tablespoons lemon juice; stir to combine.

13-Garnish with fresh parsley and freshly cracked pepper before serving.

Notes

🍝 Use angel hair pasta for the best texture; if using regular spaghetti, increase chicken broth and milk by 1/2 cup each, and Parmesan by 1/4 cup.
🥗 Homemade Caesar dressing enhances flavor but store-bought works well for convenience.
🍽️ For leftover or rotisserie chicken, add 2 cups shredded chicken at the end without marinating or searing.
🥡 Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days refrigerated or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and simmering in one pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 625 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 1102 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 49 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 39 g
Cholesterol: 101 mg

Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta, one pot pasta, creamy chicken pasta, quick dinner