Have you ever wished you could combine the savory flavors of Caesar salad with the comforting warmth of pasta? Chicken Caesar Pasta does exactly that, creating a creamy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked farfalle pasta, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe brings the best of both worlds to your table.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Caesar Pasta

Chicken Caesar Pasta offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy sauce, while the farfalle pasta serves as the ideal vehicle to soak up all that deliciousness. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Whether you’re a Caesar salad fan looking for something heartier or a pasta lover wanting a fresh take, this dish has something for everyone.

Ingredients for Chicken Caesar Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast tenderloins
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided (plus an additional 1 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces dried farfalle pasta (about 3 cups)

For the Sauce:

• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped drained canned anchovies
• 1 3/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta

Step 1: Boil Water for Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. This will save time as you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season evenly with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken.
3. Cook the chicken, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F), about 8 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Loosely cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the boiling water. Stir in the farfalle pasta.
2. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Caesar Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped anchovies. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Use the whisk to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and the remaining salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
2. Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir it into the pasta.
3. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Chicken Caesar Pasta to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Caesar Pasta

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated options.
• Anchovy Shortcut: If you’re hesitant about using anchovies, try anchovy paste for a milder, easier-to-use option.
• Add Greens: For a fresh twist, toss in some baby spinach or arugula just before serving.
• Customize Your Protein: Substitute chicken tenderloins with shrimp, salmon, or even grilled tofu for variety.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	28 g
Sodium	950 mg
Fiber	2 g

FAQs About Chicken Caesar Pasta

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it over low heat before adding the pasta and chicken.

4. Do I have to use anchovies?

Anchovies are a key ingredient for the Caesar-inspired flavor, but you can skip them if you prefer. Substitute with Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami taste.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli make great additions to this dish.

6. What pasta works best for this recipe?

Farfalle is ideal for its ability to hold the creamy sauce, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are also excellent options.

Conclusion: Bring Chicken Caesar Pasta to Your Dinner Table Tonight

Chicken Caesar Pasta is a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, indulgent meal. It’s creamy, satisfying, and full of bold flavors, making it a fantastic choice for weeknights or entertaining.

Ready to try it? Grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this irresistible fusion of Caesar salad and pasta. Your taste buds will thank you!

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