Rich, Fresh & Ultra-Satisfying
If you love bold flavor and creamy texture, this Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad is about to become your new go-to meal. Tender, juicy chicken layered over crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, and generously coated in a rich homemade Caesar dressing — every bite is savory and satisfying. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, easy lunch meal prep, or even a light dinner party dish, this salad delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with protein — ideal for busy days when you still want something fresh and delicious.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
📝 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Salad:
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup crunchy croutons
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Creamy Caesar Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (to thin)
- Salt and pepper to taste
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Large salad bowl
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly 🔪.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon, Worcestershire, garlic, and Parmesan. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until smooth. Dressing should be thick yet pourable and silky 🥣.
4️⃣ Prepare the Lettuce
Wash, dry thoroughly, and chop romaine into bite-sized pieces.
5️⃣ Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan. Add sliced chicken on top.
6️⃣ Dress & Toss
Drizzle generously with dressing and toss gently until leaves are evenly coated and glossy 🥗.
7️⃣ Serve Immediately
Plate and enjoy while crisp and creamy!
💡 Pro Tips
- Extra Creamy: Add 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt to the dressing.
- Make Ahead: Store dressing separately up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Juicier Chicken: Let it rest before slicing to keep moisture locked in.
- Flavor Boost: Add a tiny bit of anchovy paste for authentic Caesar depth.
🔄 Variations
- Grilled Version: Grill chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace croutons with Parmesan crisps.
- Wrap It: Turn into a creamy Caesar chicken wrap.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes.
❓ FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It saves time and works perfectly.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Dry the lettuce well and toss with dressing right before serving.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely — keep components separate and assemble fresh.