Description
A classic Chicken Caesar Salad elevated with tender seasoned chicken and crispy homemade croutons. The creamy, tangy Caesar dressing ties it all together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Homemade Croutons:
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough work well)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- Pinch of salt
- For the Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For Assembling the Salad:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- Shaved or grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over chicken. Let marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or refrigerate longer.
- 2. Make the Homemade Croutons: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with 3 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, parsley, and salt. Spread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Let cool.
- 3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing or cubing.
- 4. Whip Up the Caesar Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 5. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and cooked chicken. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss gently. Add half of the croutons and toss again.
- 6. Serve: Divide salad among plates. Top with remaining croutons and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Store dressing and chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Store croutons separately in a dry, airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. Assemble salad just before serving if storing leftovers to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Estimated 550
- Sugar: Estimated 4g
- Sodium: Estimated 700mg
- Fat: Estimated 35g
- Carbohydrates: Estimated 25g
- Fiber: Estimated 3g
- Protein: Estimated 35g