A Timeless Salad Youβll Crave All Year
If youβre looking for a salad that feels more like a full meal than a side, Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic that never fails. Creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, tender chicken, and crisp romaine make it satisfying, fresh, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Itβs one of the most searched salad recipes on Pinterestβespecially for those seeking a fast, protein-rich lunch or meal prep option.
Perfect for busy weekdays, BBQs, or even elegant brunches, this dish brings together timeless flavors with the option to customize it your way.
π₯¬ Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- ΒΌ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- Β½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced
- Avocado slices
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Bacon bits
π©βπ³ Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 6β7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, add chopped romaine, Parmesan, and croutons.
- Add sliced chicken on top.
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss gently.
- Top with optional ingredients if using.
- Serve immediately, or pack in airtight containers for grab-and-go lunches.
β Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Full of protein, fiber, and fresh crunch
- Quick to make with just a few ingredients
- Perfect base for variations (grilled shrimp, tofu, or salmon)
- Meal-prep friendly: store components separately
- Kid-friendly and endlessly adaptable
π Notes & Tips:
- Want it lighter? Use Greek yogurt Caesar dressing.
- Try air-fried or grilled chicken for less oil.
- Make your own croutons by tossing cubed bread in olive oil + garlic powder, then baking at 375Β°F for 10β15 minutes.