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Crispy Classic Caesar Salad Recipe with Grilled Chicken

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A crispy classic Caesar salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, homemade croutons, and a creamy garlicky anchovy dressing. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450g)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (or 1–2 teaspoons anchovy paste)
  • 2 large egg yolks (or 3 tablespoons mayonnaise as alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (sourdough or baguette)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for croutons)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for croutons)
  • Salt, to taste (for croutons)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub seasoning evenly over chicken breasts. Drizzle with olive oil and set aside. (5 minutes)
  2. Make the Croutons: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt on a baking sheet. Spread in a single layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crispy, tossing halfway through. (15 minutes)
  3. Grill the Chicken: Heat grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly. (12-15 minutes)
  4. Prepare the Dressing: Combine minced garlic, chopped anchovies, egg yolks, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a bowl or blender. Slowly whisk in olive oil until creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with pepper. If using mayonnaise, blend all ingredients until smooth. (5 minutes)
  5. Assemble the Salad: Toss chopped romaine with half the dressing in a large bowl. Add sliced grilled chicken and croutons. Drizzle remaining dressing on top. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and add cherry tomatoes if using. Toss gently. (3 minutes)

Notes

Do not overdress the lettuce to keep it crisp. Rest grilled chicken before slicing to retain juiciness. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Substitute mayonnaise for egg yolks for a safer dressing. Store croutons separately to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caesar salad, grilled chicken, homemade croutons, classic salad, easy lunch, healthy dinner, creamy dressing

Find it online: https://snappyspoon.com/crispy-classic-caesar-salad-recipe-with-grilled-chicken-easy-steps-for-perfect-lunch/