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Ultimate High-Protein Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing

Close-up of a bowl filled with high protein chicken caesar pasta salad featuring shell pasta, romaine lettuce, and chunks of chicken.
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Make a satisfying, protein-packed pasta salad perfect for meal prep or a light dinner using lean chicken and a lighter, homemade Caesar dressing based on Greek yogurt.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces high protein pasta (chickpea or lentil based)
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full fat for best texture)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water (or more, to thin)
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought croutons (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the high protein pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then dice or shred the chicken.
  3. Prepare the Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper until smooth. Add water one tablespoon at a time until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. In a very large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. If preparing immediately, fold in the croutons. If meal prepping, keep the croutons separate and add them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  7. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a gluten free high protein pasta option, use chickpea or lentil pasta.
  • This salad holds up well for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, making it excellent for protein packed lunch ideas.
  • To make this a low carb Caesar pasta salad option, substitute the pasta with steamed and chilled cauliflower florets or spiralized zucchini noodles.
  • For a lighter dressing, use nonfat Greek yogurt, but know the texture will be slightly thinner.

Nutrition

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