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Crispy Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Parmesan Crisps

crispy grilled chicken caesar salad - featured image

A quick and easy Caesar salad elevated with smoky grilled chicken and crunchy homemade Parmesan crisps, perfect for a satisfying meal with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce (about 6 cups chopped)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for crisps and salad topping)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. Prepare Parmesan crisps: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spoon small mounds (about 1 tablespoon each) of grated Parmesan spaced apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove and cool on a wire rack.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Grill the chicken: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  5. Assemble the salad: Chop romaine lettuce and place in a large bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes if using. Drizzle about half the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Arrange sliced chicken on top. Add Parmesan crisps and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side if desired.

Notes

Watch Parmesan crisps closely near the end of baking to prevent burning. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated. For a lighter dressing, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Anchovy paste is optional and can be replaced with soy sauce for umami. Serve salad immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caesar salad, grilled chicken, Parmesan crisps, easy salad recipe, quick dinner, healthy meal, homemade dressing