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Classic Chicken Caesar Salad in a Bowl

Classic Chicken Caesar Salad – A Crisp and Creamy Favorite

This Chicken Caesar Salad is a fresh, crisp, and creamy dish made with grilled chicken, crunchy romaine lettuce, crispy croutons, and a rich homemade Caesar dressing. It's easy to prepare and makes the perfect light lunch, side dish, or main course. Whether you're serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this classic salad is always a hit!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Salad, Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Grill pan or skillet (for cooking the chicken)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs (for tossing the salad)

Ingredients
  

  • ✅ For the Salad:
  • 2 romaine lettuce hearts chopped
  • 2 medium chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup croutons
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese shredded or shaved
  • ✅ For the Caesar Dressing:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 small clove garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

  • 🔸 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  • 1️⃣ Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
  • 2️⃣ Season both sides with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • 3️⃣ Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
  • 4️⃣ Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • 5️⃣ Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
  • 🔸 Step 2: Make the Dressing
  • 6️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and black pepper.
  • 7️⃣ Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until smooth.
  • 🔸 Step 3: Assemble the Salad
  • 8️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and sliced grilled chicken.
  • 9️⃣ Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
  • 🔟 Sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese and serve immediately!

Notes

Make it Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier dressing.
Crispy Chicken Option: Use breaded chicken cutlets instead of grilled chicken.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit the parmesan and use a dairy-free dressing alternative.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store ingredients separately and toss them together right before serving to keep the salad fresh.
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