Save to Pinterest The kitchen counter was crowded with grocery bags when my roommate announced we were having a dinner party in two hours. I stared at the random assortment of ingredients—chicken, pasta, romaine, a bottle of Caesar dressing—and somehow this bowl emerged from the chaos. Everyone went quiet after that first bite, forks clinking against bowls, and someone actually asked for the recipe. Now it is my go-to when I need something that feels like a restaurant meal but comes together in the time it takes to boil water.
Last summer my neighbor leaned over the fence while I was grilling chicken on the back patio, the smell of garlic and charred meat drifting through the evening air. She asked what I was making and I ended up bringing her a bowl for her family. Now whenever I fire up the grill, her kids peek through the fence slats hoping for a delivery.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Slice these against the grain after resting so every bite stays tender and juicy
- Short pasta: Penne or rotini catch all the creamy dressing in their curves, but farfalle works beautifully too
- Romaine lettuce: The crunch provides such a perfect contrast to the warm pasta and chicken
- Caesar dressing: Homemade is lovely but a good quality store-bought version makes this a weeknight reality
- Freshly grated Parmesan: The real thing melts into the warm pasta and creates these incredible salty pockets throughout the bowl
- Garlic croutons: They become soft where they touch the dressing and stay crisp on top—a texture dream
Instructions
- Get your pasta going:
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente, then drain and let it cool just enough so it will not wilt the lettuce
- Fire up the grill:
- Preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat while you prep the chicken
- Season the chicken:
- Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook about 6 to 7 minutes per side until juices run clear, then let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips
- Bring it together:
- Toss the pasta, romaine, tomatoes, and dressing in a large bowl until everything is lightly coated
- Top and serve:
- Arrange sliced chicken on top and finish with Parmesan, croutons, and a generous grind of black pepper
Save to Pinterest My sister texted me at midnight from her college apartment saying she made this for her roommates and they declared it better than any takeout they have ordered. Something about the combination of warm and cold elements makes it feel special, like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
Serving It Warm or Cold
This bowl works beautifully served right away while the chicken is still warm, but letting it chill for 30 minutes transforms it into something entirely different. The flavors meld together and the Caesar dressing soaks into the pasta, creating this almost pasta salad vibe that is perfect for hot days or packed lunches.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I add thinly sliced red bell peppers for crunch and color, or swap in grilled shrimp when I want something lighter. A handful of fresh basil or parsley right before serving brightens everything up, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness of the dressing.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or an ice-cold beer pairs perfectly with the bold Caesar flavors. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread or keep it light with a simple side of roasted vegetables.
- Grilled corn on the cob makes an excellent summer side dish
- A green salad with vinaigrette balances out the creamy dressing
- Garlic knots or breadsticks are never a bad idea
Save to Pinterest Hope this bowl brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine over the years. There is something so satisfying about a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with such ease.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle hold the dressing well and complement the grilled chicken and vegetables.
- → Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?
Yes, it can be served warm or chilled. If making ahead, cool the pasta and store components separately before tossing together.
- → How should the chicken be cooked for optimal flavor?
Grilling the chicken with olive oil and seasoned garlic powder enhances its flavor while keeping it tender and juicy.
- → What variations can be used for dietary preferences?
Swap grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken to accommodate pescatarian or vegetarian diets without compromising taste.
- → Are there any suggested toppings for extra flavor?
Adding chopped anchovies or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and adds depth to the dressing’s flavor.