Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
This classic Caesar salad gets a delicious upgrade with juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and crunchy homemade garlic croutons, all tossed in a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing made from scratch. It’s a hearty, satisfying salad that works beautifully as a main dish or a light yet luxurious dinner.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for marinating)
For the Homemade Croutons:
2 cups day-old bread (baguette or sourdough), cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, finely minced
Pinch of salt & black pepper
Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan
Salad Base:
2 large hearts of romaine lettuce, chopped
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Optional: halved cherry tomatoes, shaved red onion, or avocado slices
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for lighter version)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced or grated
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 anchovy fillet (finely chopped) or ½ tsp anchovy paste for classic flavor
Instructions:
1. Prepare and Grill the Chicken:
Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Grill over medium-high heat (or in a grill pan) for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked and juicy.
Let rest, then slice thinly.
2. Make the Croutons:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper (and Parmesan if using).
Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and crispy. Let cool.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing:
Whisk together mayo or Greek yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Adjust thickness with a splash of water or lemon juice if needed. Chill if time allows.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing.
Top with grilled chicken slices, croutons, and extra Parmesan.
Garnish with cracked black pepper, lemon zest, or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips & Variations:
Make it Mediterranean: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled zucchini.
Want it extra creamy? Blend the dressing in a mini food processor.
Make ahead: Chicken and dressing can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: You can, but homemade gives the best fresh flavor — and it’s so easy!
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free bread for croutons and ensure the Worcestershire sauce is GF.
Q: What’s a good vegetarian sub for chicken?
A: Try grilled tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas for a hearty veggie option.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 3g