Classic Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe | Easy & Flavorful
hicken Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, tender grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is a winner. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder this salad has remained a favorite for decades. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a classic Chicken Caesar Salad from scratch, including a homemade dressing that’s far superior to store-bought versions. Let’s get started!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make this salad, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grill or skillet (for cooking chicken)
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
For the Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges
- Freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Easy Chicken Caesar Salad
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the sliced chicken to the bowl.
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the salad among serving plates.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, lemon wedges, and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Variations
- Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for protein.
- Keto-Friendly: Use keto-approved croutons or skip them entirely.
- Extra Crunch: Add sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for added texture.
Cooking Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and lemon juice in the dressing.
- Don’t overdress the salad—start with a little dressing and add more as needed.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a side salad with grilled steak, fish, or pasta.
Helpful Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
- To make homemade croutons, cube stale bread, toss with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Tips for the Best Chicken Caesar Salad
- Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce—it adds depth to the dressing.
- Grill or pan-sear the chicken for extra flavor.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Serves 4)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing is fresher and more flavorful.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate and toss the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
3. What can I use instead of croutons?
Try toasted nuts, seeds, or even roasted chickpeas for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its crisp lettuce, tender chicken, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the fresh, flavorful taste of homemade Chicken Caesar Salad!
