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Chicken Caesar Pasta
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Love Caesar salad? This simple chicken pasta dish mimics the classic salad by using Caesar salad dressing for the sauce and even tops the dish off with croutons.
serves/makes:
ready in:
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
2 reviews
ingredients
2 cups uncooked dried penne pasta
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
3/4 cup creamy Caesar salad dressing
1/2 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
6 ounces shredded Mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cup seasoned croutons
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Cook the pasta as directed on the package. Drain well and set aside.
Combine the chicken, salad dressing, chicken broth, onions, bell pepper, and Mozzarella cheese in a bowl, tossing to coat the chicken in the mixture.
Stir the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture. Mix well.
Transfer the pasta to an ungreased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the croutons and Parmesan cheese.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the croutons are toasted.
Serve the chicken Caesar pasta hot.
recipe tips
Make sure the pasta is well-drained before adding to the chicken mixture to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Toss the pasta and chicken mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute the dressing and flavors.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, add the croutons in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
If you're preparing this for a gathering, you can assemble it up to adding the croutons and cheese, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. You may need to add additional Caesar dressing as the pasta will absorb some while it chills. You can bake straight from the refrigerator but allow extra time. Or, let the casserole sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes then proceed as directed.
common recipe questions
What type of penne pasta is best for this recipe?
Both regular and whole wheat penne work well. Whole wheat offers a healthier option with more fiber.
Is it necessary to use reduced sodium chicken broth?
Using reduced sodium chicken broth helps control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially since the Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese already contain salt.
Can I substitute the green onions?
Yes, you can substitute with chives for a milder flavor or even finely chopped white or yellow onions for a stronger flavor.
How do I keep the pasta from becoming overcooked?
Cook the pasta only to al dente since it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Mozzarella is preferred for its melting qualities, you can use other cheeses like Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.
nutrition data
446 calories, 26 grams fat, 24 grams carbohydrates, 26 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
May 25, 2017
This was a pleasant change of pace as it comes to pasta casseroles. Filling, of course. It tasted good leftover and cold, too. I substituted yellow onions for the green onions to good results.
August 17, 2015
This was very good! That slight Caesar salad taste in a pasta dish was unique and interesting. I will be making this again.