Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad Bowl
Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad Bowl
This Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad Bowl is a hearty, high-fibre twist on the classic Caesar salad, made even more satisfying with the addition of wholemeal pasta and a lightened-up creamy dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish combines tender pan-seared chicken, crispy bacon, crunchy cos lettuce, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a Greek yoghurt-based Caesar dressing that’s tangy, creamy, and full of flavour without the heaviness of traditional versions.What makes this salad special is its balance of textures and its clever swaps that make it a little more wholesome. The use of fibre-rich pasta makes it more filling and gut-friendly, while the yoghurt dressing keeps it lighter but still indulgent. The crispy bacon adds a savoury crunch, and the parmesan brings that essential salty bite. It’s a fantastic meal prep option, especially when you store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before eating.This salad is highly adaptable – you can use any type of short pasta, swap the bacon for roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, or add extra greens like baby spinach or rocket to bulk it out. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and works just as well with grilled salmon or tofu.Whether you’re after a nourishing packed lunch, a satisfying family meal, or a crowd-pleasing salad to bring to gatherings, this Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad Bowl is quick, comforting, and always a hit.
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Equipment
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts medium, approx. 500g
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 bacon rashers shortcut, finely sliced
Fibre
- 300 g pasta wholemeal or fibre-fortified, fusilli or penne
Fresh
- 4-6 cups cos lettuce roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
Dressing (Healthier Caesar-style)
- 1 cup greek yoghurt
- 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove small, minced
- 1/2 lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoons water to loosen if needed
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to packet instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes each side, or until golden and cooked through. In the last 3–4 minutes, add chopped bacon to the pan and cook until crispy. Let chicken rest before slicing.
- Whisk Greek yoghurt, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Thin with a little water if needed.
- Divide pasta, cos lettuce, and red onion among bowls. Top with sliced chicken and crispy bacon. Drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with Parmesan. Add lemon wedges on the side.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips for Beginners
- Cook pasta until just al dente so it holds its shape in the salad.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Thin the dressing gradually with water to reach your ideal consistency.
- Use pre-cooked chicken or leftover roast chicken to save time.
Serving Suggestions
- Add boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Toss in croutons for added crunch.
- Serve with roasted sweet potato cubes for a hearty option.
- Pair with a light vegetable soup for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead or Prepare-Ahead Guidance
- Cook pasta and chicken in advance and store separately in airtight containers.
- Prepare dressing ahead and store in a jar in the fridge.
- Assemble salad just before serving to keep lettuce crisp.
Freezer Friendly
Not recommended for freezing as the fresh ingredients and dressing do not freeze well.Storage Advice
- Fridge: Store components separately for up to 3 days. Keep dressing in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Chicken and pasta can be reheated gently if desired or served cold.
Meal Prep Instructions
- Cook pasta, chicken, and bacon ahead of time.
- Portion pasta and chicken into meal prep containers.
- Store dressing separately in small containers.
- Pack fresh lettuce and Parmesan separately to keep them crisp.
Substitutions
Protein:- Use grilled salmon, tofu, or chickpeas for variety.
- Swap for chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein.
- Use store-bought Caesar dressing if in a rush.
- Substitute with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes – pre-cooked or leftover chicken works perfectly and saves time. - Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely – swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use crispy chickpeas instead of bacon. - Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes – if you’re short on time, a good-quality Caesar dressing is a fine alternative. - How do I keep the salad fresh for meal prep?
Store the lettuce and dressing separately and assemble just before eating.
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Helpful Hints
- Chill the pasta before assembling for a refreshing cold salad.
- Add crunchy elements like croutons or roasted seeds just before serving.
- Double the dressing to have extra for other salads during the week.
- Use a mix of greens like rocket, baby spinach, or mixed leaves for variety.
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