Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

The classic Caesar salad is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time, known for its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory toppings. Originating in the early 20th century from the creative mind of Italian immigrant Caesar Cardini, this salad has become a staple in restaurants and homes alike. Its appeal lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delicious and satisfying meal or side dish.

Discover a fresh take on a classic favorite with the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with a Twist. This delightful recipe combines tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and a homemade creamy dressing to create a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this salad not only pleases the palate but also provides a wholesome balance of protein and vitamins. Learn how to elevate your salad game and enjoy a dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon sweet paprika

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

For the Caesar Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Freshly cracked black pepper, for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until fully combined.

- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a richer flavor.

Prepare the Caesar Dressing:

- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

- Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste. If the dressing is too thick, add a small amount of water, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken:

- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.

- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and displays lovely grill marks.

- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Assemble the Salad:

- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.

- Carefully lay the sliced grilled chicken over the top of the greens.

- Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad, gently tossing the ingredients together to ensure an even coating.

- Top the salad with croutons and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Finish with a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Serve:

- Divide the salad into individual bowls for a beautiful presentation, or serve it family-style in the large bowl. Enjoy each delightful bite of your Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with a Twist!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4