Why make this recipe

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a delicious and healthy meal that combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken with the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce and the creamy goodness of Caesar dressing. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. The combination of protein from the chicken and the freshness of the vegetables makes it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic salad with a twist, making it perfect for those who want to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

How to make Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Making a Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is straightforward and can be done in just a few simple steps. With the right ingredients on hand and a grill or grill pan ready to go, you’ll be able to whip up this satisfying dish in no time.

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

15 ml olive oil
5 g garlic powder
5 g dried Italian herb blend

2.5 g salt
1 g ground black pepper
2 large heads romaine lettuce, washed and chopped

150 g cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
40 g croutons
35 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

80 g mayonnaise
15 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

5 g Dijon mustard
5 ml Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, minced

1.25 g salt
0.5 g ground black pepper
2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (optional)

Directions:

Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature.
Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until thoroughly cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat, allow to rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and anchovies until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
In a large bowl, toss romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes (if using), and half the croutons with half the Caesar dressing.
Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the salad. Drizzle with the remaining dressing, sprinkle with Parmesan, and top with the reserved croutons. Serve immediately.

How to serve Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad can be served as a light meal or as a side dish. To present it nicely, use a large bowl to mix the salad, and then serve it on individual plates. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and croutons on top for added flavor and crunch. Consider adding a slice of lemon on the side to enhance the fresh taste. This salad pairs well with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing meal.

How to store Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to keep the salad crisp. The grilled chicken can also be stored separately. Consume the leftovers within 2–3 days for the best taste and freshness. When ready to eat again, simply toss the salad with the dressing and enjoy!

Tips to make Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Marinate the chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken in your favorite vinaigrette or a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before grilling. This enhances the flavor.

Fresh ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Crunchy romaine lettuce and freshly grated Parmesan make a big difference.
Add variety: Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or cucumbers, for added crunch and nutrition. Grilled corn or avocado can also enhance the salad.
Customize the dressing: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can swap out part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Variation

For those who want to switch things up, consider a few variations of this salad. You can substitute grilled shrimp or salmon for the chicken for a different protein. Using kale instead of romaine lends a nutritious twist, while adding fruits like sliced apples or pears can introduce a touch of sweetness. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat altogether and add more beans or nuts for protein.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’ll be ready to use when you need it!

What other toppings can I add to my salad?

You can add a variety of toppings such as hard-boiled eggs, bacon bits, or grilled vegetables. Nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a tasty crunch.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes! This salad can be a healthy option if made with fresh ingredients. It offers a good balance of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious meal choice. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs—like reducing the mayonnaise for a lighter dish.

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds!

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Print Recipe

A delicious and healthy salad featuring grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Author: Alexandra Roa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad

Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free

Instructions

Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature.
Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.

Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until thoroughly cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat, allow to rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and anchovies until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
In a large bowl, toss romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes (if using), and half the croutons with half the Caesar dressing.

Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the salad. Drizzle with the remaining dressing, sprinkle with Parmesan, and top with the reserved croutons. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep dressing separate until ready to eat for a crisp salad.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg

Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g

Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Grilled Chicken, Caesar Salad, Healthy Salad, Easy Recipe