Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

Name: Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup croutons; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A classic Caesar salad made at home with juicy chicken, crispy romaine, and a creamy dressing.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:28:08.955Z

This Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe combines fresh ingredients with a homemade dressing that elevates the classic dish. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, grilled chicken adds protein to your meal
Crispy romaine lettuce for a refreshing crunch
Creamy homemade Caesar dressing that's rich in flavor

      

Understanding the Ingredients

To create a satisfying Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad, it's essential to focus on the quality of your ingredients. Start with fresh romaine lettuce, as its crisp texture provides a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy dressing. Look for heads that are vibrant green without any wilting or browning. The chicken should be boneless and skinless for ease of preparation, and grilling or pan-searing will enhance its natural flavors while keeping it juicy.

The dressing is the heart of any Caesar salad and can make or break your dish. By using mayonnaise as a base, you achieve a rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tang of Dijon mustard and the zing of fresh lemon juice. Garlic adds a savory depth, while freshly grated parmesan cheese amplifies the flavor profile. Make sure to taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning to your preference, ensuring a perfect balance.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken

Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked piece every time. First, ensure your grill or pan is preheated to medium heat before adding the chicken. This helps to create a nice sear, locking in moisture. It's crucial to let the chicken rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and tender.

Consider marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can infuse the chicken with extra flavor and tenderness. Alternatively, you can season with your favorite spices to create a unique twist. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the safe internal temperature for chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup croutons
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the ingredients to your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-cook over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, sliced chicken, croutons, and grated parmesan cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad among plates and top with freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy!

Feel free to add additional toppings like anchovies or cherry tomatoes!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Chicken Caesar Salad, it's essential to store it properly to maintain freshness. Keep the salad and dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, simply drizzle with dressing and toss.

For the best flavor, consume the salad within a day or two. If you have leftover grilled chicken, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold in sandwiches or wraps.

Nutritional Benefits

This Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The grilled chicken provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Coupled with the fresh romaine lettuce, it offers vitamins A and K, which are vital for vision and bone health.

The dressing, while creamy, contains healthy fats from mayonnaise and can be made lighter with alternatives like Greek yogurt. By preparing this salad at home, you control the ingredients and can adjust the recipe to align with your dietary preferences, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, store-bought Caesar dressing can be used for convenience.

→ How do I make this salad vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.

→ Can I prepare the salad in advance?

It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

→ What can I substitute for croutons?

You can use toasted nuts or seeds for a gluten-free option.