Craving a dinner that’s both delicious and effortless? Look no further than this One Pot Chicken Caesar Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, savory dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caesar salad with the heartiness of pasta and tender chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dinner game. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering meal that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the hot pan. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate, keeping it warm.
- In the same pan, add the uncooked pasta and chicken broth. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in the Caesar dressing, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and gently mix to combine and reheat.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to incorporate.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Top with chopped romaine lettuce just before serving for a fresh, crisp texture.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh romaine lettuce and high-quality Caesar dressing. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste.
- Customize Your Pasta: Feel free to swap out the pasta type! Whether you prefer penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Add Veggies: Consider tossing in some veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition and color. They’ll complement the dish beautifully!
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this ensures it browns nicely instead of steaming.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you love a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or more Caesar dressing to taste.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese when serving! A sprinkle on top enhances the flavor and presentation.
- Leftover Magic: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
