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Crispy Classic Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

Crispy Classic Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken - featured image
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A fresh and filling Caesar salad featuring crisp Romaine lettuce, smoky grilled chicken, homemade croutons, and a creamy, tangy dressing with a hint of anchovy umami. Perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads Romaine lettuce, fresh and crisp
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless grilled chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Homemade croutons (see recipe below)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 small anchovy fillets, minced or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • For the Croutons:
  • About 3 cups day-old baguette or sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill each side for 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  2. Make the Croutons: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, tossing halfway through, until golden and crisp. Let cool.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, anchovies or paste, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Prep the Lettuce: Rinse Romaine leaves thoroughly and pat dry. Tear leaves into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
  5. Assemble the Salad: Drizzle about half the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat. Add sliced grilled chicken, croutons, and grated Parmesan. Drizzle remaining dressing or serve on the side. Toss lightly before serving.
  6. Final Touch: Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.

Notes

Let the grilled chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Toss croutons halfway through baking for even browning. Whisk olive oil slowly into dressing for a silky texture. Serve salad immediately after tossing to avoid sogginess. Dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Store components separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caesar salad, grilled chicken, homemade croutons, creamy dressing, easy lunch, classic salad, healthy meal

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-classic-caesar-salad-with-grilled-chicken-recipe-easy-perfect-lunch-idea/