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Cheddar’s Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Copycat Recipe

A close-up of cheddar's chicken caesar pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, grilled chicken, and creamy dressing.
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Make the creamy, flavorful Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad from Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen at home using simple ingredients and clear steps. This recipe replicates the restaurant favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, for authentic flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup water or milk (to thin, if needed)
  • 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup croutons

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
  3. Cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Make the Caesar dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. If the dressing seems too thick, whisk in water or milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
  5. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, diced chicken, and the prepared Caesar dressing until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Fold in the fresh components: Gently stir in the shredded romaine lettuce and croutons.
  7. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Serve cold, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For the most authentic flavor, do not skip the anchovy paste; it adds depth without tasting fishy.
  • Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best dressing flavor.
  • You can grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smokier taste.
  • If making ahead, wait to add the croutons until just before serving so they do not become soggy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/cheddars-chicken-caesar-pasta-salad/