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Crispy Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

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A quick and easy crispy grilled chicken Caesar salad with a creamy homemade Parmesan dressing, perfect for family meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), pounded to even thickness
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
  • 1/4 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: Cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1–2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2–3 tablespoons water or milk to thin, if needed

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking. Rub both sides with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it rest while you prep the dressing.
  2. In a small bowl or food processor, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, minced anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk or blend until smooth. If the dressing feels too thick, add water or milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the chicken. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  4. While the chicken cooks, chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl. Add croutons and Parmesan shavings. If using, toss in halved cherry tomatoes.
  5. Drizzle the creamy Parmesan dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top. Add a final sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper.
  6. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety. Avoid pressing chicken while grilling to keep it juicy. Freshly grated Parmesan is best for dressing texture. Keep dressing separate until serving to avoid soggy lettuce. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, Caesar salad, homemade dressing, Parmesan dressing, easy salad, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/crispy-grilled-chicken-caesar-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-dressing-tips/