Step 1: Prepare the Pasta : Cook your pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down for the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken : Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Cook in a skillet with olive oil or grill them until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Prep the Fresh Ingredients : Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice cherry tomatoes if using. Grate fresh Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad : In a large mixing bowl, add cooked pasta, sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Pour Caesar dressing over the mixture.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together : Gently toss until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Add Croutons : Stir in croutons just before serving to ensure they stay crispy and crunchy.