Description
A delicious and easy recipe for grilled chicken caesar salad that combines perfectly grilled chicken with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and fresh Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pieces (1.5 pounds) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large head romaine lettuce
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 pieces, minced garlic cloves
- 1 whole fresh lemon (juiced)
- 1 cup croutons
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high temperature (about 400°F). Clean grates and oil lightly to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Avoid pressing down with spatula.
- Rest and Slice: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. This keeps juices sealed inside for maximum tenderness.
- Prepare Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, ensuring pieces are bite-sized and well-dried for optimal dressing adherence.
- Assemble and Dress: Add sliced chicken, croutons, and parmesan cheese. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat evenly without crushing lettuce.
- Final Presentation: Plate individual servings or serve family-style, garnished with extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about 3/4 inch) for uniform cooking and prevent dry edges
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking – 165°F internal temperature is perfect
- Wash and thoroughly dry lettuce using a salad spinner to prevent watery dressing
- Add warm chicken to room temperature lettuce for the perfect temperature contrast
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485 calories
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: grilled chicken caesar salad, recipe, homemade, cooking, food, easy recipe, healthy salad, main course