Chicken Caesar Bowtie Pasta Salad

Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Let the chicken cool before adding it to the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, mayonnaise (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Add the Toppings
Just before serving, gently fold in the croutons and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and add chopped romaine lettuce if you want more crunch.

Step 6: Serve
Serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature as a side dish or main course.

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