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Chicken Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken and Homemade Dressing

Chicken Caesar Salad: A Flavor-Packed Classic Made Fresh

  • Author: Cindy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 5–6 servings as a side, 2–3 as a main
  • Category: Seasonal and Holiday Salads
  • Method: Tossed
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • For the Dressing:

    • 1 cup mayonnaise

    • 1/2 teaspoon finely minced garlic

    • 3/4 teaspoon fish sauce (anchovy substitute)

    • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

    • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

    • 3 to 4 tablespoons milk (to thin as needed)

    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    For the Garlic Croutons:

    • 2 to 3 slices white sandwich bread

    • 1 clove garlic, halved

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    For the Salad:

    • 10 cups chopped romaine lettuce (about 1 large or 2 medium heads)

    • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

    Optional Add-Ins:

    • 2 to 4 eggs, cooked to preference, peeled and halved

    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil


Instructions

  • Make the Dressing:

    • Blend all dressing ingredients together in a food processor or blender, starting with 3 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk as needed to reach desired consistency. Let sit for at least 20 minutes for flavors to develop.

  • Prepare the Croutons:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F.

    • Lightly toast the bread until the surface feels dry. Rub both sides with the cut side of the garlic.

    • Cut bread into cubes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

    • Bake for about 7–15 minutes (depending on bread type), shaking once, until golden brown. Cool before using.

  • Cook the Chicken (Optional):

    • Pound chicken to even thickness or slice breasts horizontally.

    • Season with salt and pepper.

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until done. Let rest, then slice.

  • Boil the Eggs (Optional):

    • Place eggs in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat slightly.

    • Cook for 3 minutes for soft yolks, up to 6 minutes for hard-boiled. Cool in ice water, peel, and halve.

  • Assemble the Salad:

    • Toss lettuce with half the dressing. Add more dressing if desired.

    • Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with croutons and optional chicken and egg.

    • Garnish with additional Parmesan.