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Chicken Caesar Salad with grilled chicken and homemade croutons

Chicken Caesar Salad: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Classic Recipe


  • Author: David Tag
  • Total Time: 27 minutes

Description

This Chicken Caesar Salad is crisp, creamy, and seriously satisfying. Juicy seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with crunchy romaine, golden homemade croutons, and rich Caesar dressing for a fresh meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for busy weekdays. Whether you’re making lunch, dinner, or meal prep bowls, this classic salad never disappoints.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Salad

  • 2 large romaine hearts, chopped

  • ½ cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup homemade or quality store-bought croutons

For the Caesar Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 small garlic clove, minced

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  • Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

  • Remove chicken from pan and rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

  • In a bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.

  • Add romaine lettuce to a large bowl, drizzle lightly with dressing, and toss gently.

  • Top with sliced chicken, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.

  • Toss once more, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra juicy chicken, let it rest before slicing so the juices stay locked in.

Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for better flavor and texture.

Toss the lettuce lightly with dressing first, then add toppings to avoid overdressing.

Want a lighter version? Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt in the dressing.

For meal prep, store chicken, lettuce, dressing, and croutons separately until serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes