Description
Creamy, crunchy, savory, and packed with protein — the Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a staple that never goes out of style. Whether you need a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a simple meal prep idea, this easy recipe brings bold Caesar flavor and satisfying texture with homemade croutons and a rich dressing. Perfect for everyday food ideas or healthy dinner ideas!
Ingredients
3 cups day-old bread, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil (for croutons)
1 garlic clove, minced (for croutons)
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced (for dressing)
1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
Shaved Parmesan, for garnish
Extra lemon wedges, optional
Instructions
1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden. Let cool.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temp reaches 165°F. Rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, anchovy paste (if using), grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, sliced chicken, cooled croutons, and dressing. Toss well to coat.
5. Top with shaved Parmesan and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time on busy days.
To make it gluten-free, use GF bread for croutons.
If prepping ahead, store dressing, chicken, lettuce, and croutons separately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Skillet + Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (of 4 total)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Caesar Salad, Easy Salad, Healthy Dinner, Homemade Croutons, Quick Lunch