Chicken Caesar Salad | A Classic and Easy Homemade Recipe

Chicken Caesar Salad That’s Fresh, Creamy, and Delicious

There’s something about a well-made Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe that feels both comforting and sophisticated at the same time. The crisp romaine, garlicky dressing, and salty Parmesan are already a winning trio, but add juicy slices of chicken on top, and suddenly it transforms into a complete meal. I used to think of Caesar salad as just a side dish, but once I started making it this way, it became one of my favorite go-to dinners.

This recipe is for anyone who wants a balanced, protein-rich salad perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or meal prep.

Difficulty: Easy

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the salad:

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce washed and chopped
• 1 cup croutons homemade or store-bought
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For dressing (classic Caesar style):

• 2 anchovy fillets or 1 tsp anchovy paste
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 TBSP lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup mayonnaise or 1 raw egg yolk + ½ cup neutral oil for traditional
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Cook the chicken. Rub the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
2. Make the dressing. Mash the anchovies and garlic into a paste. Whisk with mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire, and mayo until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prep lettuce. Chop romaine and pat dry completely.
4. Assemble the salad. Toss lettuce with dressing, then top with sliced chicken, croutons, and Parmesan.
5. Serve. Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and cracked pepper.

Video

Notes

Lesson learned: Cutting chicken too soon dries it out. Always rest before slicing.

Lettuce matters: Dry leaves help the dressing stick instead of sliding off.

Anchovy secret: Don’t skip it, it’s what makes Caesar dressing taste authentic.

Parmesan tip: Freshly shaved Parmesan curls look beautiful on top.

Tips & Tricks

• Meal prep: Cook extra chicken and store separately; toss salad fresh each day.
• Grill flavor: Use an outdoor grill or grill pan for a smoky taste.
• Healthier swap: Use half mayo, half Greek yogurt as a dressing.
• Extra crunch: Add roasted chickpeas or bacon bits.
• Make ahead: Dress lasts 3–4 days refrigerated.

Serving Suggestions

• Light dinner: Serve with garlic bread or soup.
• Lunch option: Wrap in a tortilla for a chicken Caesar wrap.
• Party platter: Serve in individual bowls or cups.
• BBQ side: Pair with grilled steak or salmon for variety.
• Elegant touch: Top with a poached egg for richness.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 34 g
• Carbs: 18 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 3 g