Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Caesar Salad combines all the best elements of the classic salad—crunchy romaine, savory grilled chicken, rich homemade dressing, and crispy croutons—into a satisfying and flavorful dish. Making your own dressing enhances the overall flavor and allows you to avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. The grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor, while the fresh greens and crispy toppings create the perfect texture balance.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Homemade Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce.
- Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped romaine, grilled chicken slices, croutons, and grated Parmesan.
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Top the salad with bacon, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
- Vegan option: Use a plant-based mayonnaise and skip the chicken for a vegan version.
- Extra veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Storage tip: For longer freshness, store the salad components separately and assemble when ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing really enhances the flavor and freshness of the salad. Store-bought dressings often contain preservatives and added sugars, which can affect the overall taste.
2. How do I make homemade croutons?
To make croutons, cube some stale bread, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the components ahead of time and store them separately. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
4. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
You can use soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a combination of tamari and lemon juice if you don’t have Worcestershire sauce.
5. Can I use grilled chicken from a rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe for a quicker option. Just shred it and add to the salad.
Conclusion
This Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing is a fantastic, fresh twist on the classic. The homemade dressing makes all the difference, providing a rich and creamy coating that brings the entire salad together. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Delicious Chicken Caesar Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing is a flavorful twist on the classic dish. Tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich homemade dressing come together for a satisfying and delicious meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or gatherings, the homemade dressing elevates the flavors, making it a fresh and wholesome choice that’s better than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 2 heads romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Homemade Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce. Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped romaine, grilled chicken slices, croutons, and grated Parmesan. Drizzle with homemade dressing and toss gently.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based mayonnaise and skip the chicken for a vegan version.
- Extra Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado for more flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
