Chicken Caesar Bowtie Pasta Salad combines all the flavors of a classic Caesar salad with tender bowtie pasta and juicy chicken for a delicious, hearty dish. This pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep. It’s packed with creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded, grilled or rotisserie)
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced, optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Romaine lettuce (optional, chopped, for added crunch)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup bacon bits
- 1/2 avocado (diced)
- 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
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!