Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe

4 stars
3.83 (16)
Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on December 04, 2023

This Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad with tender chicken and al dente pasta. The creamy and tangy Caesar dressing coats every bite of pasta perfectly, while the chicken adds a protein-rich element to make it a complete meal. It's an easy recipe to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort. With a preparing time of just 30 minutes, you can serve this delicious pasta to your family and friends in no time. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, be it a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves

Directions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips.
  6. In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  7. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  8. Stir in the cooked penne pasta, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
  9. Add the baby spinach leaves and cook for another minute, or until wilted.
  10. Remove the skillet from heat and add the sliced chicken. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.
  11. Serve the Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Interesting Facts

  • Caesar dressing was named after its creator, Caesar Cardini, an Italian chef who invented it in Tijuana, Mexico in the 1920s.
  • Originally, Caesar salad was meant to be eaten with fingers, the lettuce leaves were meant to be picked up and the dressing coated each leaf.
  • Penne pasta, with its tube-like shape, is perfect for holding a creamy sauce like this one.
  • You can substitute the penne with your preferred pasta shape, such as fusilli or farfalle, if desired.