Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Favorite

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Looking for a tasty and easy meal? Try making a grilled chicken Caesar salad! It’s a simple dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing. You can whip up this satisfying salad in no time for a quick lunch or dinner.

This classic salad is perfect for warm summer days. The smoky flavor of the grilled chicken pairs well with the cool, crisp lettuce and creamy dressing. You can use store-bought dressing or make your own for extra flavor. Add some homemade croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese to take it to the next level.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here’s what you’ll need for a tasty grilled chicken Caesar salad:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Romaine lettuce
• Caesar dressing
• Parmesan cheese
• Croutons
• Cherry tomatoes (optional)

For the chicken marinade:

• Olive oil
• Soy sauce
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Can’t find some ingredients? Try these swaps:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor
• Swap romaine for kale or mixed greens
• Make your own dressing with mayo, lemon juice, and anchovies
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano
• Use toasted bread cubes if you’re out of croutons

Want to add more veggies? Try cucumber slices or red onion for extra crunch.

For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt in place of some mayo in the dressing. You can also grill the romaine for a smoky flavor.

Remember, you can adjust amounts to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Instructions

Get ready to make a tasty grilled chicken Caesar salad! Here’s how to do it:

1. Marinate the chicken:

   • Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs
   • Cover chicken breasts and let sit for 30 minutes

2. Grill the chicken:

   • Heat grill to medium-high
   • Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until done
   • Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice

3. Prep the salad:

   • Wash and chop romaine lettuce
   • Slice cherry tomatoes in half
   • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese

4. Make croutons:

   • Cut bread into cubes
   • Toss with olive oil and seasonings
   • Bake until crispy or grill briefly

5. Assemble the salad:

   • Put lettuce in a large bowl
   • Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, croutons, and cheese
   • Drizzle with Caesar dressing
   • Toss gently to combine

6. Serve and enjoy:

   • Divide salad among plates
   • Add extra dressing if you like
   • Sprinkle with black pepper

You can make parts ahead of time to save effort later. The chicken can be grilled 2-3 days before and reheated or served cold.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Want to make the best grilled chicken Caesar salad? Here are some helpful tips:

Marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours. This will make it super juicy and flavorful.

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook more evenly on the grill.

Get your grill nice and hot before adding the chicken. Aim for medium-high heat, around 400°F.

Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F internally.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps all those tasty juices inside.

For crispy lettuce, tear the romaine into bite-sized pieces instead of chopping it.

Make extra dressing and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Got leftovers? Store the chicken and salad separately. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Reheat leftover chicken gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold in your salad.

For a quick meal prep, grill extra chicken and use it in salads throughout the week.