Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Looking for easy high-protein meal prep friendly lunch ideas? Try this creamy pasta salad!

Recipe inspired by Shred Happens.

Ingredients:
For the salad
1 lb chicken thighs
1 lemon
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp onion powder
3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
4 oz banza chickpea rotini pasta (about 1 1/2 cups)

For the dressing
2 tbsp mayo
4 tbsp plain greek yogurt
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 lemon
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425F.
2. To a large bowl, add the chicken thighs, juice of 1 lemon, olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and onion powder. Mix together until chicken is coated.
3. Place the chicken onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 35-40 minutes.
4. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes and dice into cubes.
5. Chop the romaine lettuce.
6. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
7. Make the dressing. Into a bowl add the mayo, greek yogurt, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, juice of 1 lemon, minced garlic, cracked pepper, and parmesan cheese. Mix together.
8. Assemble the salad by adding the diced chicken, romaine lettuce, cooked pasta, and dressing to a bowl. Toss together and enjoy!

Storage:
Divide into 3 meal prep containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition:
Makes 3 servings
Amount per serving:
Calories: 526 kcal, Protein: 39g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 30g , Fiber: 5g, Sodium: 538mg, Calcium: 171mg