Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe: The Best And Ultimate Chicken Salad with Homemade Dressing
Introduction: Indulge in the perfect harmony of crisp romaine lettuce, succulent grilled chicken, and a rich, creamy Caesar dressing with this Ultimate Chicken Caesar Salad recipe. Elevate your salad game by crafting this classic dish with a homemade dressing that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Follow the steps below to create a delightful dining experience for yourself and your loved ones.
Ingredients:
For the Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon anchovy paste (optional, for authentic Caesar flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- Shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- Make the Caesar Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, anchovy paste (if using), fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Refrigerate the dressing while you prepare the salad components.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with a generous amount of the homemade Caesar dressing until each leaf is coated.
- Add the grilled chicken strips on top of the lettuce.
- Add the Crunch:
- Sprinkle croutons over the salad for a delightful crunch. You can use store-bought croutons or make your own by toasting cubes of bread in the oven with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Garnish with Parmesan:
- Shave fresh Parmesan cheese over the salad using a vegetable peeler or a grater. This adds a sharp and savory element to each bite.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Divide the salad among serving plates, ensuring each portion gets a fair share of the grilled chicken, croutons, and Parmesan.
- Drizzle a little extra Caesar dressing on top if desired.
- Serve immediately, and savor the flavors of this Ultimate Chicken Caesar Salad.
- Optional Enhancements:
- For an extra burst of freshness, add cherry tomatoes or sliced cherry tomatoes to the salad.
- Avocado slices or chopped avocados can add creaminess and a buttery texture.
- Conclusion: Elevate your salad experience with the Ultimate Chicken Caesar Salad featuring a homemade dressing that’s rich, tangy, and utterly delicious. This classic recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to option for a satisfying and wholesome meal. Share this culinary delight with friends and family, and watch as this salad becomes a staple in your recipe repertoire.