Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Made Easy

Ingredients

• 1 lb penne pasta (or rigatoni, fusilli)
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large)
• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
• 2 tbsp anchovy paste (or 4 anchovy fillets, minced)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tbsp for cooking chicken
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 cup croutons or crispy bacon bits, for topping

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and do not rinse.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season liberally on both sides with salt and pepper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

3. 3

   Heat a large grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden brown and charred. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

4. 4

   In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmesan, lemon juice, anchovy paste, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until completely smooth and emulsified. Slowly drizzle in the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil while whisking constantly to create a thick, luscious dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Transfer the drained, warm pasta to a very large mixing bowl. Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the hot pasta and toss well until every piece is coated.

6. 6

   Add the chopped romaine lettuce and sliced grilled chicken to the bowl with the dressed pasta. Pour the remaining dressing over the top. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until the lettuce is just barely coated and the chicken is evenly distributed.

7. 7

   For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

8. 8

   Before serving, give it a final toss. Top with extra Parmesan shavings, croutons, or crispy bacon bits if desired.