The Best Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe for Zesty Dinners

Caesar salads revolutionize traditional lunch options with their crisp, tantalizing combination of flavors.

Green leafy foundations create a refreshing base for this classic dish.

Creamy dressing upgrades ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary and memorable.

Protein-packed chicken elevates the salad from a simple side to a substantial meal.

Mediterranean culinary influences shine through with each carefully balanced bite.

Salt, pepper, and subtle seasonings dance across the palate, creating depth and complexity.

Bold textures and rich flavors make this recipe a crowd-pleasing favorite you won’t want to miss.

Chicken Caesar Salad Variants That Keep Things Fresh

• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Caesar: Enhance the marinade by adding fresh oregano, basil, and thyme. Replace the Greek yogurt with a blend of Greek yogurt and olive oil for a richer Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken Caesar: Incorporate chipotle powder and smoked paprika into the marinade. Swap cherry tomatoes for roasted corn and add sliced jalapeños for extra heat. Drizzle with a cilantro-lime yogurt dressing.
• Greek-Inspired Chicken Caesar: Mix crumbled feta cheese into the dressing. Add kalamata olives and diced cucumber to the salad. Garnish with a sprinkle of dried oregano and replace pita with warm flatbread.
• Protein-Packed Quinoa Caesar: Replace lettuce with a bed of mixed quinoa and chopped romaine. Add grilled chickpeas alongside the chicken for additional protein. Incorporate hemp seeds as a crunchy topping.

What Makes Chicken Caesar Salad So Classic and Satisfying

• Grill Juicy Chicken Strips: Marinating chicken in a tangy yogurt mixture ensures tender, flavorful meat that's perfectly seasoned and incredibly moist.
• Create a Healthier Caesar Twist: Swapping traditional caesar dressing with Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining a creamy, rich taste that feels indulgent yet nutritious.
• Quick and Easy Meal Prep: This recipe offers a fast, convenient dinner solution that can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunch options.
• Customize Your Salad Experience: The versatile pita pocket format allows easy customization, letting everyone build their own salad with their preferred ingredients and portion sizes.

The Must-Haves for a Great Chicken Caesar Salad

• Never Any! ABF B/S Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that provides the main substance of the salad, best when fresh and free from antibiotics.
• Friendly Farms Plain Greek Yogurt: Creamy base for dressing that adds protein and tangy flavor, choose full-fat for richness.

• Romaine Hearts: Crisp and fresh lettuce base with a mild flavor, provides crunchy texture and nutritional value.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Adds bright color and fresh sweetness, select ripe and firm tomatoes for best taste.
• L'oven Fresh White Pita Breads: Soft bread to accompany the salad, good for scooping or serving alongside.

• Garlic Cloves: Provides sharp, aromatic flavor to the dressing, fresh garlic delivers the best taste.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the dressing, freshly squeezed gives most vibrant flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Contributes tangy depth and helps emulsify the dressing, smooth variety works best.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile, provides essential seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Adds slight heat and complexity, freshly ground offers most intense flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Creates smooth texture in dressing and adds rich undertone, choose high-quality cold-pressed variety.
• Parmesan Cheese: Introduces salty, nutty flavor, best when freshly grated.

How to Build a Crisp and Creamy Caesar Salad with Chicken

Step 1: Craft Zesty Dressing

• Greek yogurt
• Minced garlic
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

Separate half the mixture into a zip-top bag for marinating chicken. Stir parmesan cheese into remaining mixture and refrigerate.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Strips

Slice chicken breasts diagonally into 3/4-inch wide strips. Place strips into marinade bag, seal, and gently massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.

Step 3: Grill Chicken Perfectly

Heat grill or skillet to medium-high. Lightly oil cooking surface. Remove chicken from marinade, scraping off excess. Grill until both sides are golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest briefly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Create Crisp Lettuce Base

Wash and dry romaine lettuce. Slice crosswise into 1/2-inch ribbons. Toss in large bowl with reserved yogurt dressing until evenly coated.

Step 5: Warm Pita Pockets

Wrap pita breads in damp paper towels. Microwave on a plate for 30-45 seconds until heated. Carefully remove plastic wrap. Slice each pita in half and gently open pockets.

Step 6: Assemble Delicious Salad

• Quartered cherry tomatoes
• Grilled chicken pieces

Serve immediately and savor the fresh, tangy flavors.

Salad Tips for the Right Balance of Crunch and Creaminess

• Marinate Wisely: Let chicken soak in yogurt mixture for at least 3 hours or overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect safety and juiciness.
• Slice Like a Pro: Cut chicken strips diagonally and evenly to guarantee consistent cooking and appealing presentation.
• Keep Lettuce Crisp: Pat romaine lettuce completely dry after washing to prevent soggy salad and maintain crunch.
• Warm Pitas Perfectly: Use damp paper towels when microwaving pita to prevent drying out and maintain soft texture.

How to Keep Chicken Caesar Salad Fresh for Later

• Refrigeration: Transfer leftover salad components separately into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep chicken, lettuce, and dressing in different compartments to maintain freshness.
• Reheating Chicken: Warm chicken strips gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 15-second intervals to prevent drying. Add a splash of water or olive oil to retain moisture and prevent toughness.
• Salad Assembly: Reassemble the salad just before serving to prevent soggy lettuce. Add fresh dressing and toss ingredients lightly to revive the flavors and texture of your Chicken Caesar Salad.

What to Serve with a Chicken Caesar Salad

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Elevate the salad's tangy yogurt dressing and grilled chicken with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio. These light, zesty wines complement the salad's fresh flavors and cut through the creamy dressing.
• Complement with Sparkling Water: Add a refreshing touch by serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon. The effervescence and citrus note will cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the salad's bright, Mediterranean-inspired profile.
• Serve with Whole Grain Crackers: Introduce a crunchy texture alongside the salad by offering whole grain crackers. These provide a nutty, hearty counterpoint to the light chicken and crisp lettuce, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to the meal.
• Match with Chilled Cucumber Soup: Create a cooling starter that mirrors the salad's fresh ingredients. A light, herb-infused cucumber soup will prep the palate and echo the salad's clean, vibrant Mediterranean essence.

Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

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4.5 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent grilled chicken crowns this classic Caesar salad, combining crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan shavings, and homemade croutons. Mediterranean flavors dance with creamy dressing, inviting you to savor a light yet satisfying meal that celebrates fresh ingredients and timeless culinary tradition.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.25 pounds or 567 grams)

Salad Components:

• 2 hearts of romaine, cut into ½-inch ribbons
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 4 white pita breads
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) grated parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) plain greek yogurt
• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty yogurt-based dressing by whisking Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until silky smooth. Divide the mixture, reserving half for the salad dressing and setting aside the remainder for marinating chicken.
2. Slice chicken breasts into slender diagonal strips. Immerse the strips in the reserved marinade within a sealed zip-top bag, ensuring thorough coating. Refrigerate for minimum 3 hours, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes prior to cooking, allowing it to reach ambient temperature. Heat grill or skillet to medium-high, lightly coating cooking surface with oil.
4. Grill chicken strips, turning once, until exterior develops golden-brown caramelization and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow meat to rest briefly before chopping into bite-sized morsels.
5. Cleanse and shred romaine lettuce into delicate ribbons. Toss lettuce with reserved yogurt dressing, ensuring even distribution of tangy coating.
6. Warm pita breads by wrapping in damp paper towels and microwaving for 30-45 seconds. Carefully split each pita pocket, creating a receptacle for salad ingredients.
7. Layer pita pockets with dressed lettuce, scatter quartered cherry tomatoes, and crown with grilled chicken pieces. Drizzle additional dressing if desired. Serve immediately to savor the vibrant, fresh flavors.

Notes

• Master the art of quick meal prep by having all ingredients measured and ready before starting.
• Marinating chicken overnight intensifies flavors and ensures tender, juicy results.
• Customize salad with additional toppings like croutons, extra parmesan, or sliced olives for personal flair.

• Prep Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 85mg