Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Jars Recipe
It’s convenient: individual jars make grab‑and‑go lunches a breeze.
Balanced and filling: you get protein from the chicken and carbs from pasta, plus refreshing greens.
Customizable: swap dressings or add extras like cherry tomatoes or parmesan.
Stays fresh during the week when layered properly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast
kosher salt
Italian seasoning
onion powder
garlic powder
lemon
uncooked pasta (such as chickpea or short pasta)
romaine lettuce
Caesar dressing
Directions
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Prepare the chicken: Cut chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Mix kosher salt, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl and rub over the chicken. Preheat a grill pan over medium‑high heat with nonstick spray. Grill the chicken about 5 minutes per side, covering with a lid to cook through. Finish until golden and squeeze lemon over the top.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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Prep the lettuce: Wash and chop romaine lettuce.
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Assemble jars: Start with grilled chicken pieces on the bottom of each jar, add cooked pasta, and finish with chopped romaine on top. Keep dressing separate until ready to eat.
Servings and timing
Servings: About 4 jars (one per person)
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~25 minutes
Variations
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Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for protein.
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Add-ins: Try cherry tomatoes, shredded parmesan, olives, or croutons for extra flavor.
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Different pasta types: Use whole wheat, lentil, or quinoa pasta for added nutrients.
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Alternate dressings: Swap Caesar with ranch, green goddess, or balsamic vinaigrette for a different taste.
Storage/Reheating
These salad jars refrigerate well for up to 4–5 days when sealed tightly. Keep the dressing separate to maintain crispness; add right before serving. There’s no need to reheat — this recipe is best served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How long will the salad jars stay fresh in the fridge?
Stored properly, they should stay fresh for about 4–5 days.
Should I add the dressing before storing?
No — keep dressing separate so the lettuce and pasta don’t get soggy.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes — use any creamy dressing you like, such as ranch or a lighter vinaigrette.
Can I swap the pasta for something else?
You can use gluten‑free pasta, chickpea pasta, or even quinoa for variation.
Is it necessary to grill the chicken?
Grilling adds flavor, but you can substitute baked or pan‑cooked chicken.
What size jars should I use?
Wide‑mouth jars around 32 oz work best for layering ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes — cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or peppers make great additions.
Is this salad suitable for lunch meal prep?
Absolutely — it’s designed to be a convenient make‑ahead lunch.
Can I prepare this ahead of time for a picnic?
Yes — just keep the dressing in a separate container until serving.
What’s the best way to eat the salad from the jar?
Dump the jar contents into a bowl, add dressing, toss, and enjoy.
Conclusion
These Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Jars are an easy, delicious meal‑prep solution that brings together juicy grilled chicken, hearty pasta, and crisp lettuce in a portable format. With simple ingredients and layers that keep well all week, they’re ideal for busy days or healthy lunches on the go.
