Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or tenderloins, diced

• 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning (Cajun, lemon pepper, or your favorite blend)

• 8 strips bacon, diced

• 1 lb short pasta (rotini or fusilli work best)

• 12 oz romaine lettuce, chopped

• ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

• ½ cup garlic butter croutons, partially crushed

• 1 teaspoon salad seasoning (optional, adjust to taste)

• ½ cup Caesar dressing

• ⅓ cup ranch dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

---

Optional: Homemade Caesar Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 3 small garlic cloves, chopped

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

---

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

• Drain, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil.

• Season diced chicken with poultry seasoning.

• Cook until golden and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes), then set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon

• In the same or separate skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.

• Drain on a paper towel and let cool.

4. Make the Homemade Caesar Dressing (Optional)

• In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

• Refrigerate until ready to use.

5. Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Cooked pasta

  • Chopped romaine lettuce

  • Cooked chicken

  • Crispy bacon

  • Parmesan cheese

  • Crushed croutons

  • Salad seasoning

6. Dress the Salad

• In a small bowl, mix the Caesar and ranch dressings (or use the homemade Caesar).

• Pour over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.

7. Serve

• Garnish with extra Parmesan and a few whole croutons on top.

• Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes for a more refreshing taste.

---

💡 Tips

• Add halved cherry tomatoes or avocado for extra color and creaminess.

• If preparing ahead, keep the lettuce and dressing separate and mix just before serving to prevent sogginess.