Caesar Pasta Chicken Bowl (Printable)

Vibrant bowl with grilled chicken, pasta, romaine, and Caesar dressing. Ready in 35 minutes. Serves 4.

# Ingredient List:

→ Protein & Pasta

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 14 oz)
02 - 9 oz short pasta such as penne, rotini, or farfalle

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

→ Dressing & Toppings

05 - ½ cup Caesar dressing
06 - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 cup garlic croutons
08 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Marinade

09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - ½ teaspoon salt
12 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly if serving chilled.
02 - While pasta cooks, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
03 - Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
04 - Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
05 - In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes if using, and Caesar dressing. Toss gently to coat.
06 - Top with sliced grilled chicken, Parmesan, croutons, and black pepper.
07 - Serve immediately warm, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving cold.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms ordinary salad into a hearty, complete meal that actually satisfies
  • The warm grilled chicken against cool crisp lettuce creates that perfect temperature contrast
02 -
  • Slicing chicken against the grain after resting keeps it tender and juicy
  • Toss the pasta with dressing while slightly warm so it absorbs more flavor
03 -
  • Massaging the chopped romaine with a little dressing before tossing with pasta prevents sogginess
  • Toast extra croutons with Parmesan sprinkled on top for an irresistible garnish
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