Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is my go-to when I need a meal that feels both hearty and fresh It is loaded with juicy grilled chicken crisp romaine lettuce and showered with a creamy savory Caesar dressing Plus those garlicky croutons add the perfect crunch Each bite brings together all the classics that make this timeless salad so satisfying for lunch or a light dinner

The first time I made this for friends everyone raved about the homemade dressing Now it is requested at nearly every summer get-together because it hits all the right notes without being too heavy

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein for a filling meal Look for firm fresh breasts without excess liquid
• Olive oil: brings moisture and helps the chicken grill evenly Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
• Garlic powder and dried Italian herbs: add robust seasoning to the chicken Dried herbs keep things simple and store well
• Salt: heightens all the flavors Use kosher or sea salt for easy seasoning
• Black pepper: brings mild heat and peppery depth Freshly ground tastes best
• Romaine lettuce: delivers crispness and body Opt for heads with dark green vibrant leaves
• Cherry tomatoes (optional): lend juiciness and a touch of sweetness Firm ripe tomatoes make the salad pop
• Croutons: add crunch and contrast to the tender lettuce Look for large rustic-style or make your own for freshness
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: brings signature richness and salty bite Always grate from a block for best flavor
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of the dressing Pick a high-quality mayonnaise for smoother texture
• Lemon juice: brightens the dressing and balances the richness Freshly squeezed has the best tang
• Dijon mustard: gives the dressing subtle heat and body Go with a smooth emulsified variety
• Worcestershire sauce: layers in umami and depth Always taste test if salt content differs by brand
• Garlic clove (minced): sharpens all the creamy notes Use fresh garlic for bold flavor
• Anchovy fillets (optional but traditional): Add a deep savory punch and classic Caesar character Choose from a good-quality jar or tin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Grill or Grill Pan:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so you have a nicely hot surface for good sear marks and even cooking You want the temperature hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts very dry with paper towels so you get beautiful browning Rub the chicken with olive oil then sprinkle both sides evenly with garlic powder dried Italian herbs salt and black pepper This not only seasons but helps the chicken stay juicy and flavorful

Grill the Chicken:

Place chicken onto the preheated grill Cook for six to seven minutes on one side without moving to develop deep golden grill marks Flip and grill for another six to seven minutes until completely cooked through The juices should run clear and an instant-read thermometer reads 165 degrees Let the chicken rest off the heat for five minutes before slicing so it stays moist

Make the Caesar Dressing:

In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise freshly grated Parmesan lemon juice Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce minced garlic chopped anchovy fillets if using salt and black pepper Whisk until velvety smooth and adjust seasoning as needed The dressing should be zesty creamy and packed with flavor

Assemble the Salad Base:

In a large salad bowl combine chopped romaine lettuce cherry tomatoes if using and half your croutons Drizzle with half the Caesar dressing and toss gently until all leaves are lightly coated This step ensures every bite is evenly dressed and full of flavor

Add the Chicken and Finish the Salad:

Arrange the sliced grilled chicken breast over your tossed salad Pour on the remaining dressing scatter with more grated Parmesan and sprinkle over the rest of the croutons The goal is a little bit of everything in every forkful

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the finished salad to plates immediately for maximum crunch and freshness This salad truly shines right after tossing

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One of my favorite parts is shaving fresh Parmesan cheese directly over the top just before serving The salty nutty aroma always makes me hungry for the first bite My kids always try to sneak the homemade croutons before they even make it to the salad bowl so I have to hide a few until the last minute

Storage Tips

This salad tastes best freshly tossed but you can store the separate components for up to two days Chicken can be kept in the fridge in a covered container Leftover dressing will last about a week well chilled For crispness store lettuce croutons and dressing separately then assemble just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in boneless skinless thighs or even grilled shrimp for a twist Try a spoonful of Greek yogurt in the dressing for extra tang or skip anchovies if you want the flavor mellow For crunchy gluten free croutons cube and toast a loaf of gluten free bread

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a main course with a side of grilled bread or a cup of soup For a more colorful plate top with extra cherry tomatoes shaved radish or sliced avocado on the side It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine if you are feeling celebratory

Cultural and Historical Context

Caesar salad was first invented in Tijuana Mexico by Italian chef Caesar Cardini during a busy Fourth of July service in the 1920s Grilled chicken became a natural addition decades later giving us the hearty version we all love in North America Classic Caesar dressing always features anchovies parmesan and a creamy base which gives this dish its iconic flavor

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Common Questions

→ How do you keep grilled chicken juicy?

Brush chicken with olive oil and avoid overcooking. Let it rest before slicing to retain moisture.

→ Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?

Yes, omit anchovies for a milder taste. Add extra lemon juice or more Parmesan for added flavor.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

Try grilled shrimp, tofu, or even turkey breast for a different protein option.

→ Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?

Use gluten-free croutons or skip them entirely to keep the salad gluten-free.

→ Does the dressing contain raw eggs?

No, this dressing uses mayonnaise instead of raw eggs for creaminess and safety.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving for freshness.