Chicken Caesar Salad

Introduction

The Chicken Caesar Salad is a modern twist on the classic Caesar Salad, adding hearty grilled or roasted chicken to turn a beloved side dish into a satisfying main course. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and nutty Parmesan cheese are tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, while tender, juicy chicken adds protein and makes the dish wholesome and filling.

This salad is versatile—it can be served as a light lunch, a dinner entrée, or even as a party favorite. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a fresh counterpart to rich, comforting dishes, Chicken Caesar Salad has an appeal that spans seasons and occasions. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing at the same time.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Chicken Caesar Salad because it’s a perfect example of how a classic can be elevated with just one simple addition—protein. The juicy, flavorful chicken pairs so well with the tangy, creamy Caesar dressing and crisp romaine lettuce. It transforms the salad from a starter into a complete and satisfying meal.

Another reason this recipe is so lovable is its versatility. You can grill the chicken for a smoky, charred taste, pan-sear it for a golden crust, or bake it for a hands-off option. It’s also customizable—you can keep it traditional or add avocado, bacon, or even roasted vegetables. Every bite feels like a refreshing yet filling indulgence.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

The Chicken Caesar Salad is a must-try dish because it:

• Combines the timeless flavor of a Caesar Salad with the heartiness of chicken.
• Is nutritious and balanced, offering protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Works for any occasion—whether as a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch prep, or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings.
• Showcases how simple ingredients can be elevated into something elegant and satisfying.

Once you try it homemade, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought or restaurant versions!

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~450–500 calories per serving (with chicken and dressing)
• Course: Main Course / Salad
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Caesar Dressing (Homemade)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 anchovy fillets (or 2 tsp anchovy paste)
• 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise if avoiding raw egg)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Croutons (Optional Homemade)

• 3 cups bread cubes (day-old baguette or sourdough)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
   • Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Prepare the Croutons (if homemade):
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • Mash garlic and anchovies into a paste using a mortar and pestle or back of a spoon.
   • Whisk in egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
   • Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to form a creamy emulsion.
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Place chopped romaine in a large mixing bowl.
   • Drizzle dressing over the lettuce and toss until well coated.
   • Add croutons and Parmesan cheese, toss lightly.
   • Top with sliced chicken.
5. Serve Immediately:
   • Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and black pepper if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled on individual plates or family-style in a large serving bowl.
• Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish.
• For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of soup or grilled corn.

Recipe Tips

• Dry lettuce completely using a salad spinner—wet lettuce makes dressing slide off.
• Use fresh Parmesan (not pre-grated) for maximum flavor.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of egg yolk and oil in the dressing.

Variations

1. Avocado Chicken Caesar Salad – Add creamy avocado slices for extra richness.
2. Bacon Chicken Caesar Salad – Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
3. Shrimp Caesar Salad – Replace chicken with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
4. Kale Chicken Caesar Salad – Swap romaine for kale for a nutrient-dense version.
5. Spicy Chicken Caesar Salad – Marinate chicken with chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Do not freeze.
• Croutons: Keep in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 1 week; freeze for up to 2 months.
• Cooked Chicken: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Assembled Salad: Best eaten immediately; dressed salad does not store well.

Special Equipment Needed

• Salad spinner (for crisp, dry lettuce)
• Whisk or immersion blender (for dressing)
• Grill pan or skillet (for cooking chicken)
• Large salad bowl

Conclusion

The Chicken Caesar Salad is a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile dish that brings together the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce, the creamy tang of Caesar dressing, and the savory richness of grilled chicken. It’s more than just a salad—it’s a complete meal that feels light yet indulgent, elegant yet simple. Whether served at a family dinner, for a quick lunch, or at a special gathering, this recipe never fails to impress.

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Chicken Caesar Salad

Author: admin Cuisine: American, Italian Courses: Salads

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 450–500 calories per serving

Description

The Chicken Caesar Salad is a modern twist on the classic Caesar Salad, adding hearty grilled or roasted chicken to turn a beloved side dish into a satisfying main course.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Salad

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Caesar Dressing (Homemade)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 anchovy fillets (or 2 tsp anchovy paste)
• 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise if avoiding raw egg)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Croutons (Optional Homemade)

• 3 cups bread cubes (day-old baguette or sourdough)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Prepare the Croutons (if homemade): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: Mash garlic and anchovies into a paste using a mortar and pestle or back of a spoon. Whisk in egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to form a creamy emulsion. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad: Place chopped romaine in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle dressing over the lettuce and toss until well coated. Add croutons and Parmesan cheese, toss lightly. Top with sliced chicken.
5. Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and black pepper if desired.

Keywords: Chicken Caesar Salad