Salads
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
A really good chicken Caesar salad comes down to two things: a properly seasoned, well-charred piece of chicken and a Caesar dressing made from scratch instead of poured from a bottle. This version pairs juicy grilled chicken with crisp romaine, shaved parmesan and crunchy croutons in a garlicky, anchovy-based dressing that tastes far better than takeout.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Homemade Caesar dressing in 5 minutes
- Substantial enough for a full dinner
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Easily made gluten-free by skipping croutons
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, then season with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal). Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- Meanwhile, whisk together the mayonnaise, parmesan, anchovy, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon and pepper. Thin with water, one tablespoon at a time, until pourable.
- Toss the chopped romaine with two-thirds of the dressing until evenly coated.
- Divide the dressed romaine among plates, top with sliced chicken, croutons and shaved parmesan, and drizzle with the remaining dressing.
Tips for success
- Anchovy is what gives Caesar dressing its signature savory depth — it won't taste fishy, just rich and umami.
- Chill the romaine before tossing for the crunchiest, crispest salad.
- Make the dressing up to 4 days ahead; it keeps well refrigerated in a sealed jar.
- For extra char flavor, grill the romaine halves cut-side down for 1-2 minutes before chopping.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes, substitute 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami depth without using anchovy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you omit or use gluten-free croutons; the dressing and chicken are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?
Absolutely — sliced rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that still tastes great with the homemade dressing.
How long does homemade Caesar dressing last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it keeps well for about 4-5 days.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 398 |
| Protein | 36g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Sodium | 640mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
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