Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

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I’ve always had a soft spot for a well-made Caesar salad, and when you add perfectly grilled chicken to the mix, it becomes a full-on obsession. This Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is my go-to when I want something that’s quick to throw together, full of texture, and hits all the right flavor notes—crisp romaine, juicy chicken, crunchy croutons, and that rich, garlicky Caesar dressing.

Whether I’m whipping it up for a light lunch or serving it as a dinner side that steals the show, this salad never fails. It’s satisfying without being heavy, and it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy without actually requiring much effort. I promise, once you make this at home, restaurant Caesar salads just won’t compare.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

This salad brings together everything you want in a single bowl—crunch, creaminess, protein, and punchy flavor. It’s balanced, nourishing, and incredibly easy to customize. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how the homemade dressing elevates even the most basic ingredients. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and ideal for both weeknights and gatherings.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are grilled or pan-seared with a touch of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also use chicken thighs if you like juicier meat, or even leftover rotisserie chicken in a pinch. The goal is to have tender, flavorful slices that blend seamlessly with the rest of the salad.

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Options for Substitutions

• Lettuce: Romaine is classic, but kale or a crunchy mix of greens works well too.
• Croutons: Use store-bought or make your own with day-old bread tossed in olive oil and garlic.
• Dressing: Traditional Caesar uses raw egg yolks, but Greek yogurt or store-bought versions are great alternatives.
• Protein: Swap chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese: Parmesan is standard, but pecorino romano or even a shaved hard cheese blend can bring a unique twist.

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Ingredients for this Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp, refreshing, and the traditional base for Caesar salad. It holds up well to the dressing and adds crunch.
• Grilled Chicken Breast: Provides a hearty, lean protein that turns this salad into a satisfying meal.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness. Use freshly grated for best flavor and texture.
• Croutons: Adds crunch and texture. Homemade with olive oil and garlic elevates the whole salad.
• Caesar Dressing: Creamy, garlicky, and tangy. Homemade or high-quality store-bought both work beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken and make the croutons. Adds flavor and helps with crisping.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the entire dish.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat until golden on the outside and cooked through inside (internal temp of 165°F). Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

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Step 2: Make the Croutons

Cut day-old bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp, tossing halfway through for even browning.

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Step 3: Wash and Dry the Lettuce

Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Wash thoroughly and spin or pat dry completely—wet leaves will water down your dressing.

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Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add the croutons, a generous handful of grated Parmesan, and sliced grilled chicken on top.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Finish with a crack of fresh black pepper and a bit more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best crunch and freshness.

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How Long to Prepare the Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

Prep Time: Most of your time will go into prepping ingredients like washing and chopping lettuce, making the croutons, and seasoning the chicken. This usually takes around 15–20 minutes if you’re doing everything from scratch.

Cooking Time: The chicken takes about 10–12 minutes to cook thoroughly, and croutons need around 10–15 minutes in the oven. You can multitask to keep total time down. Overall, the salad is ready in about 30 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

• Use fresh, crisp romaine for the best crunch.
• Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Toast your croutons until golden and crunchy, not burnt.
• Grate your Parmesan fresh for better flavor.
• Toss the lettuce in dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: It turns dry quickly. Use a meat thermometer to be safe.
• Using Wet Lettuce: It waters down your dressing—make sure it’s fully dry.
• Too Much Dressing: A light coating goes a long way; overdressing makes it heavy.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Both chicken and croutons need proper seasoning.
• Low-Quality Cheese: Pre-grated cheese lacks flavor and texture. Use a block of Parmesan if possible.

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What to Serve With Classic Chicken Caesar Salad?

1. Garlic Bread

Perfect for dipping into leftover dressing or scooping up any stray croutons.

2. Tomato Basil Soup

A light soup balances out the salad for a comforting lunch combo.

3. Pasta Primavera

Add more veggies and carbs to the meal without overpowering the salad.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

A warm, naturally sweet side that contrasts the savory Caesar flavors.

5. Iced Tea or Sparkling Lemonade

Refreshing drinks that enhance the freshness of the salad.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers: Store components separately if possible. Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately.

Fridge: Keep grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Croutons can be stored in a dry, sealed container at room temperature.

Dressing: Homemade Caesar dressing should be refrigerated and used within 5–7 days.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to grill the chicken?

Use medium heat and grill for 5–6 minutes per side. Let it rest before slicing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep components separate and combine just before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes! Skip the chicken and use chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Absolutely. Just choose a high-quality brand with minimal preservatives.

How do I keep croutons crispy?

Store them in an airtight container and add them to the salad right before serving.

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Conclusion

Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that blends simplicity with bold flavor. From the crisp lettuce to the creamy dressing and juicy grilled chicken, every bite feels indulgent yet balanced. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering, it delivers every time with ease and elegance.

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