Trader Joes Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

This creamy, crunchy Trader Joes Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is made with tender fusilli, grilled chicken strips, and crisp romaine, ready in just 20 minutes. Tossing the cold pasta with the savory, garlic-packed dressing creates a satisfying lunch that rivals the store-bought version. I love making this in bulk for meal prep because it stays fresh and flavorful for days.

Better Than Takeaway

The original grab-and-go container often features slightly soggy lettuce or dry chicken by the time you buy it. Making this at home guarantees crisp greens and perfectly juicy chicken every single time.

I was surprised how much money I saved by assembling these bowls myself rather than buying them daily. You get double the portion size for half the price, without sacrificing that signature tangy flavor.

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Trader Joes Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Ingredients

For the Salad Base:

• 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups grilled chicken breast, cooked and sliced
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup seasoned croutons

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

How To Make Trader Joes Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and add salt if needed.
3. Assemble the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced grilled chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce.
4. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Top with shaved Parmesan and croutons just before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Dry the greens: Wet lettuce will water down your creamy dressing, so always use a salad spinner or paper towels to dry the romaine thoroughly after washing.
• Chill the ingredients: Ensure your pasta and chicken are completely cold before mixing them with the lettuce to keep the greens crisp.
• Customize the protein: While grilled chicken is standard, this recipe works beautifully with rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey.

What To Serve With Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

This salad is substantial enough to stand alone as a main course for lunch or a light dinner. If you want a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic breadsticks or a cup of roasted tomato soup.

How To Store

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you are meal prepping, keep the dressing and croutons in separate containers and mix them in right before you eat to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, bowties (farfalle) or rotini are excellent alternatives because their ridges hold the thick dressing well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti for this salad.

Is the dressing gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you must check the Worcestershire sauce label as some brands contain barley. Ensure you use gluten-free pasta and croutons if needed.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely, Trader Joe’s sells a bottled Caesar dressing that works well if you are short on time. However, the homemade version takes only minutes and tastes much fresher.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g
• Protein: 24g