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Chicken Caesar Salad | Easy Restaurant-Style Recipe

Chicken Caesar Salad (Easy, Classic & Restaurant-Style)

This Chicken Caesar Salad features tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy garlic croutons, freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing. It's a classic, protein-packed salad that's easy enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, italian-american
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large romaine lettuce hearts chopped
  • 1 cup garlic croutons
  • ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh cracked black pepper for serving
  • Lemon wedges optional
Caesar Dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Grill Pan or Skillet For cooking the chicken
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For tossing the salad
  • 1 Cutting Board For prepping ingredients
  • 1 Chef's Knife For slicing chicken
  • 1 Small Bowl For preparing the dressing

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.Meanwhile, whisk together all of the Caesar dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl.Add the croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.Drizzle with the Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat.Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top.Finish with extra Parmesan, freshly cracked black pepper, and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Chill the lettuce before serving for extra crunch.
  • Add the croutons just before serving.
  • Homemade dressing provides the freshest taste.
  • Store the dressing separately if meal prepping.
    Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.