There’s nothing quite like a classic Caesar salad, but adding perfectly grilled chicken takes it to a whole new level. This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad combines smoky, tender chicken with the crisp crunch of romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a timeless favorite that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a dish to impress guests at your next gathering.
The grilled chicken is marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, infusing it with a bold flavor that pairs seamlessly with the creamy Caesar dressing. Crispy croutons add the perfect crunch, while shavings of Parmesan bring a salty, nutty richness to the salad. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the bold, classic flavors to shine in every bite.
This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a one-bowl meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a quick weekend lunch. Pair it with a side of fresh bread or enjoy it on its own—it’s a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Juice of ½ lemon
For the Salad:
- 2 large heads of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup croutons
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
For the Caesar Dressing (Homemade or Store-Bought):
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice.
- Rub the marinade over the chicken breasts and let sit for 20–30 minutes.
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Grill the Chicken:
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Grill the chicken for 6–8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
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Make the Dressing (if homemade):
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and croutons.
- Add the Caesar dressing and toss until evenly coated.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Transfer the tossed salad to a serving bowl or plate.
- Top with grilled chicken slices, Parmesan cheese, and optional avocado slices.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan or cracked black pepper if desired.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.
Tips for a Perfect Caesar Salad
- Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce for the best texture.
- Make your croutons at home by toasting cubed bread with olive oil and garlic.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like your salads spicy.