This Caesar Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and satisfying enough for lunch or dinner. With tender chicken, crisp romaine, and a creamy Caesar dressing, this classic recipe gets a simple, protein-packed upgrade.

I first made this Caesar salad with chicken on a weeknight when I wanted something quick yet wholesome, and it’s been on repeat ever since. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a last-minute crowd-pleaser, this recipe is versatile, quick, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!

What’s Inside This Recipe?

Ingredients

This Caesar chicken salad is made with simple, fresh ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: Lemon wedges for serving

Special Tools: A grill pan or skillet for cooking the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Caesar chicken salad is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Here’s how to prepare it:

Season and cook the chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub them with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Prepare the lettuce

While the chicken cooks, chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large salad bowl and set aside.

Assemble the salad

Add the croutons and Parmesan cheese to the bowl of lettuce. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange it over the salad.

Drizzle and toss

Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Start with half the dressing, then add more to taste. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.

How to Serve Your Caesar Chicken Salad

This salad is perfect on its own as a light meal, but you can also pair it with a warm baguette or garlic bread for a heartier option.

For a dinner party, consider serving it as a side alongside pasta dishes or grilled vegetables. To make it extra special, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or additional Parmesan shavings.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately for the best results. Keep the lettuce, chicken, and dressing in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, toss everything together to maintain the salad’s crisp texture. To reheat the chicken, warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Top Tips for Customizing Your Caesar Chicken Salad

Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp, crispy tofu, or even rotisserie chicken for a fun twist.
Add extra veggies: Cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or avocado make great additions.
Make it lighter: Opt for a low-fat Caesar dressing or use Greek yogurt as a base for a homemade version.
Try different greens: Romaine is classic, but kale or spinach can add variety and extra nutrients.

Your Questions About Caesar Chicken Salad Answered

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves you even more time. Just slice or shred it and add it to the salad.

What’s the best way to make homemade croutons?

Cut day-old bread into cubes, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crisp.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the components separate to prevent the lettuce from wilting. Assemble just before serving for the freshest results.

Is Caesar dressing gluten-free?

Most store-bought Caesar dressings contain gluten due to added thickeners or crouton bits. Check the label or make a homemade version if you need it gluten-free.

How do I make a vegetarian Caesar chicken salad?

Skip the chicken and use plant-based protein like chickpeas or marinated tofu. Also, look for vegetarian Caesar dressing that doesn’t contain anchovies.

Ready to Try This Caesar Chicken Salad?

This Caesar chicken salad is a classic recipe made even better with its simplicity and versatility. I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) it as much as I do. If you give it a try, let me know how it turns out in the comments below.

Don’t forget to share your photos and tag WandaRecipes.com on social media. I love seeing your creations! Looking for more salad inspiration? Check out my other easy and delicious salad recipes, perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!