Description
This Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines hearty kale, juicy chicken, crispy chickpeas, and nutty parmesan all coated in a homemade Greek yogurt Caesar dressing for a perfect high-protein meal prep or summer BBQ pasta salad recipe.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients:
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 lb fusilli pasta
- 4 cups kale, finely chopped
- 8 oz parmesan cheese wedge
- 1 can chickpeas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Sprinkle of chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing:
- 1 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 small cloves of garlic
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp anchovy paste
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Drain, rinse, and thoroughly dry the chickpeas. Add to a parchment-lined baking sheet and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and chili flakes. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until crispy.
2. Butterfly and lightly pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2-inch thickness. Season generously with salt. Heat a pan to medium-high and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Pan fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to cool, then dice.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta to al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Remove stems and finely chop the kale. Add to a large bowl with drained pasta and diced chicken.
5. In a food processor, pulse half the parmesan wedge until finely grated. Add Greek yogurt, garlic, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth. Taste and season as needed.
6. Toss the pasta, kale, and chicken with the dressing. Top with crispy chickpeas and remaining parmesan before serving.
Notes
This high-protein pasta salad makes a fantastic meal prep option or summer BBQ dish.
To make ahead, store salad and dressing separately, then toss before serving.
Estimated Nutrition Facts: 419 calories | 31g protein | 53g carbs | 9g fat | 12g fiber