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Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad for a Healthy Summer Boost

Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a nutritious meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors, perfect for summer BBQs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Crispy Chickpeas Baking Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts Grilling or baking enhances the flavor.
  • 8 oz Fusilli Pasta Swap with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 4 cups Kale, finely chopped Spinach or arugula can be a delicious substitute.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Roasted chickpeas provide an extra crispy bite.
For the Dressing
  • 1.5 cups Plain Greek Yogurt Vegan yogurt works well as a substitute.
  • 8 oz Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Feel free to use any mustard in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Opt for vegetarian versions if needed.
  • 2 tsp Anchovy Paste Omit for a vegetarian-friendly dressing.
  • 1 piece Lemon Brightens flavors and adds zesty freshness.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor adjustment.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor adjustment.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
  • 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika Sweet paprika can also be used.
  • to taste Chili Flakes Skip for a milder flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Food Processor
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and chili flakes. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 20–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
  2. Butterfly and lightly pound boneless chicken breasts for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate to cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add fusilli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool completely.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped kale, cooked pasta, and diced chicken. Gently toss to ensure the kale is well-distributed.
  5. In a food processor, pulse the Parmesan cheese until finely grated. Add the Greek yogurt, garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, and fresh lemon juice. Pulse until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the kale, chicken, and pasta mixture, tossing gently until all ingredients are coated. Sprinkle the crispy chickpeas on top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with seasonal vegetables or tofu for a plant-based option. Store crispy chickpeas separately from the salad for maximum crunch.

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