Chicken Caesar Salad
This Chicken Caesar Salad combines fresh romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and a rich Caesar dressing made from garlic, Parmesan, anchovies, and lemon. It's a hearty yet refreshing salad that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal or a delicious side dish, this Chicken Caesar Salad is sure to impress with its balanced flavors and textures.
Equipment
- 1 Grill Pan or Skillet
- 1 Whisk
- 1 large salad bowl
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
- 1 Small Bowl (for mixing dressing)
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese shaved or grated
- 1 cup croutons
For the Caesar Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or 1 egg yolk for a classic version
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Grill the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Make the Caesar Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Stir in grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the dressing until well-coated. Add the grilled chicken on top, followed by croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
Serve:
- Divide the salad into individual bowls or plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Grilled Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute grilled chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Dressing Variations: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or make a vegan Caesar dressing using cashews or tahini.
- Making Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chicken ahead of time. Store separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving.
- Crouton Options: Homemade croutons give a crunchier texture compared to store-bought. Simply cube stale bread, toss with olive oil, and bake until crispy.