simple chicken caesar salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple chicken caesar salad recipe
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The Best simple chicken caesar salad recipe

I’m so excited to share my simple chicken Caesar salad recipe with you. This classic dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be tailored to suit any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special event, this recipe delivers. Plus, the best part is that it’s ridiculously healthy, making it a guilt-free choice for even the most health-conscious among us.

As an added bonus, this recipe is also incredibly versatile – feel free to swap out the chicken for grilled salmon or tofu for a vegetarian option. So what are you waiting for?

Let’s get started!

Simple Chicken Caesar Salad

Simple Chicken Caesar Salad

4.6 from 724 votes

A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and tender chicken breast. This easy recipe uses a creamy dressing made from scratch for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each)
1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Croutons

2 cups cubed sourdough bread (1/2-inch cubes)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 anchovy fillet, minced (optional)
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2Arrange bread cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of salt.
3Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once halfway, until the croutons are golden brown and crisp.
4Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
5Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
6Cook chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is golden brown.
7Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
8In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced anchovy, garlic, and 1/4 cup Parmesan until smooth.
9Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced chicken, croutons, and remaining Parmesan.
11Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Baking sheet
Small bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise. To save time, use store-bought croutons and rotisserie chicken.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Caesar Salad Works

This simple chicken caesar salad is a recipe I turn to again and again. It works for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or even when I have company over.

My family always cleans their plates, and I feel good knowing they are eating something wholesome. If you have leftover salad, store the components separately in the fridge.

The chicken keeps for up to four days, and the dressing lasts a week. To reheat the chicken, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave.

For serving, add fresh croutons and extra parmesan on top. This salad is versatile and always satisfying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Caesar Salad

1. Can I use store bought dressing for this salad?

Yes, you can use store bought caesar dressing if you are short on time. Just look for one with simple ingredients like parmesan, garlic, and lemon. Homemade dressing is easy to make and tastes fresher, but store bought works fine.

2. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

The best way is to not overcook the chicken. Cook it over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but do not toss the salad with dressing until you are ready to eat. Store the washed lettuce, cooked chicken, croutons, and dressing separately in the fridge. Assemble right before serving.

4. What can I use instead of anchovy paste?

Anchovy paste adds a savory depth, but you can skip it or use a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce instead. The dressing will still taste good without it.

5. Is this salad gluten free?

The salad itself is gluten free if you use gluten free croutons or omit them. The dressing is naturally gluten free as long as your mayonnaise and other ingredients are certified gluten free. Check labels to be sure.

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