This Caesar Pasta Salad is as addictingly scrumptious as they come, make ahead friendly and will have everyone talking at potlucks, picnics and parties! It’s a hypnotic balance of tender pasta, fresh, crisp Romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons and rich, salty Parmesan all bathed in my WAY-better-than-store-bought, bright, tangy, garlicky, Caesar Dressing.
2largechicken breastsseasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
8filletsanchovy
1cupsour cream
½cupmayo
¼cuplemon juice
Dijon mustard
balsamic vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
minced garlic
salt
pepper
freshly grated Parmesan
milkto get it just right
Instructions
Instructions
First, cook your pasta in boiling water according to the package, but don’t overdo it — you want it a little firm since it'll sit with the salad. Drain it and set aside to cool a bit.
In a skillet, melt unsalted butter and add olive oil over medium heat. This combo makes the chicken extra tasty and juicy when cooked.
Rub your chicken breasts down with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, oregano, thyme, pepper and cayenne pepper for a mix that packs a punch but won’t overwhelm.
Place the chicken in the warm skillet and cook 5-7 minutes each side until totally done. You can hear it sizzle and smell it crisp up, dang it’s inviting.
Take the chicken off and let it rest so the juices settle. Then slice it up into strips you can toss with the salad.
Mix the pasta, Romaine, tomatoes, bell pepper, croutons, and Parmesan cheese in a big bowl. Whip up the dressing by blending anchovies, sour cream, mayo, lemon, Dijon, balsamic, Worcestershire, garlic, salt, pepper, Parmesan, and a bit of milk till smooth. Pour that gorgeous dressing over everything, top with chicken strips and toss gently. Serve right away or chill till dinner.
Notes
Store leftovers with dressing separate to avoid soggy salad.