Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic summer dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing. This salad is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a refreshing lunch. The smoky flavor of the grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing and the crunch of the croutons, making it a delightful twist on the traditional salad. With its bold flavors and textures, Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
* 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
* 1 cup of homemade Caesar dressing (see below for recipe)
* 1 cup of croutons (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 cup of shaved Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon of olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/2 cup of sliced red onion, 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced
* 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons of olive oil
* 1 egg yolk
* 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing ingredients until smooth.
4. Add the sliced grilled chicken to the bowl with the lettuce mixture and drizzle with the Caesar dressing.
5. Toss the salad gently to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, sliced red onion, and cherry tomatoes (if using).
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling the chicken)
Prep Time: 15 minutes (preparing the Caesar dressing and assembling the salad)
Total Time: 25-27 minutes (including cooking and prep time)
Variations:
* Add some spice by tossing the chicken with a mixture of chili flakes and olive oil before grilling.
* Swap the croutons with crushed potato chips or crispy fried onions for a crunchy twist.
* Substitute the anchovy fillets with a splash of fish sauce or umami-packed miso paste for a different flavor profile.
* Add some freshness by topping the salad with chopped mint leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil.
* For a vegan version, use a tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and make a vegan Caesar dressing by substituting the egg yolk with a flax or chia egg.