Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad (Meal Prep)

Are you searching for a delicious and easy meal prep recipe? Look no further! The Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a vibrant blend of flavours and textures that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also stores well, making it perfect for those hectic weekdays when you need a healthy meal on the go.

This meal is built around a few essential ingredients that not only taste great together but also provide balanced nutrition. The combination of rotini pasta, tender chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing makes this salad irresistible. Plus, a serving of this salad contains about 30 grams of protein! Let’s dive into how to make it.

Meal Prepped Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Ingredients

To prepare this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, you will need:

• 340g spelt, chickpea, or whole-grain rotini

• 4 chicken breasts, chopped and seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder

• 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped

• Optional: extra veggies like 1 cup of cucumbers, 1 bell pepper, or 1 cup of cherry tomatoes

• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)

• 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese (the real stuff!)

• Optional extras: Plain kefir, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, croutons

  
  

For an added gut health boost, consider mixing in 1/4 cup of plain kefir into your dressing.

Preparing the Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the rotini according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta once cooked and rinse it under cold water. This rinsing step is crucial as it cools the pasta and helps prevent it from sticking, ensuring a better mix with the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, season the chopped chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté it in a skillet over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 75°C). Allow the cooked chicken to cool before adding it to your salad.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and any optional veggies you choose to add. If you're craving a crunch factor, consider tossing in 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds or 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds or croutons.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Once everything is well mixed, drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. If you're including kefir, mix it into your dressing beforehand to enhance flavour and nutrition. If you're meal prepping, divide the dressing into 4 small containers to add just before serving.

Storing and Serving

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is an ideal option for summer meal prep. Divide the salad into 4 individual containers, and it will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. This way, you can grab a healthy, filling meal in seconds, no matter how busy your day gets.

My Favourite Spelt Flour Pasta

A Tasty and Healthy Choice

If you're on the lookout for a foolproof meal prep recipe or just a delicious salad to enjoy, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is sure to please. It’s versatile enough to allow for variations with your favourite vegetables or toppings, and it's even a crowd pleaser for kids! With its nutritious ingredients, and balanced profile, you’ll stay energized throughout the day. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become a regular part of your meal prep lineup!