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Best Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 36 reviews

This BEST Chicken Caesar Salad combines juicy, marinated grilled chicken breasts with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich, tangy homemade Caesar dressing. The dressing doubles as a marinade infused with anchovy, garlic, and parmesan for a classic, flavorful taste. Topped with shaved and grated parmesan and freshly cracked pepper, this salad is a perfect balanced meal full of bold flavors and satisfying textures, ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Dressing/Chicken Marinade

  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons anchovy paste
  • 3 garlic cloves, sliced
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1½ teaspoons honey
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Salad

  • 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 large hearts romaine lettuce, cleaned and chopped (about 10-12 cups)
  • 2 cups croutons
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup shaved parmesan cheese
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing/marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, sliced garlic cloves, kosher salt, black pepper, and honey. Slowly drizzle in olive oil and avocado oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing. Stir in grated parmesan cheese to complete the dressing.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour approximately half of the prepared dressing over the chicken. Ensure all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 1 hour, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  3. Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, season lightly with additional salt and pepper if desired. Grill chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. Assemble the salad: Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl. Add croutons and drizzle remaining dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.
  5. Add chicken and cheese: Slice the grilled chicken into strips and arrange on top of the salad. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and scatter shaved parmesan over the entire dish. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately for the best texture contrast between crisp lettuce and warm chicken. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Chicken Caesar Salad!

Notes

  • The dressing doubles as a marinade to infuse the chicken with rich Caesar flavors.
  • Using a grill or grill pan helps achieve a smoky, charred flavor but pan-searing can also be done if a grill is unavailable.
  • If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
  • Allow chicken to rest after grilling to retain juiciness.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the final flavor profile.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American