When it comes to a satisfying and flavorful meal, few dishes can rival the classic combination of crispy romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and juicy chicken. But why settle for just any ordinary chicken Caesar salad when you can elevate it with rich and creamy ingredients? In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that put a twist on the traditional dish, incorporating everything from Parmesan crisps to sriracha dressing.
From classic takes on the original recipe to innovative fusion flavors, these creamy chicken Caesar salads are sure to satisfy any appetite. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing option or something more indulgent and rich, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this beloved dish!
Classic Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing
This timeless salad combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and a tangy homemade Caesar dressing, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (recipe below)
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
4. Whisk together homemade Caesar dressing ingredients in a bowl.
5. Toss chicken with croutons and parmesan cheese.
6. Combine chopped romaine lettuce, grilled chicken mixture, and homemade Caesar dressing for the perfect salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Parmesan Crisps
This classic salad gets a crispy twist with the addition of parmesan crisps, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. With grilled chicken, tangy caesar dressing, and fresh romaine lettuce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup caesar dressing
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and croutons.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad bowl.
5. Drizzle caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the salad.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Chicken Caesar Salad with Creamy Dressing
This classic salad gets a creamy twist with the addition of ripe avocado and a homemade dressing that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup creamy Caesar dressing (see below for recipe)
Creamy Caesar Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Drizzle the Creamy Caesar Dressing over the top and toss until well combined.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the cooking method for the chicken)
Spicy Chicken Caesar Salad with Sriracha Dressing
Elevate your classic Caesar salad game with the bold flavors of spicy chicken and creamy Sriracha dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breast to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the salad.
7. Drizzle with additional Sriracha sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale Chicken Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful combination of crispy kale, juicy chicken, and crunchy garlic croutons. This hearty salad is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toss kale with Caesar dressing in a large bowl.
4. In a small bowl, mix together bread crumbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
5. Drizzle crouton mixture with olive oil and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Combine chicken, kale, and croutons in the salad bowl. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Caesar Salad with Smoky Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this mouth-watering BBQ chicken caesar salad, smothered in a rich and creamy smoky dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– Smoky Dressing (see below)
Smoky Dressing:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Brush on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare smoky dressing by whisking all ingredients in a bowl.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Drizzle Smoky Dressing over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the creamy richness of Caesar dressing with the crunch of cauliflower rice and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup chopped romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Cook chicken breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower “rice”, cooked chicken, romaine lettuce, and croutons.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Caesar Salad with Blue Cheese Crumbles
Get ready to spice up your salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of Buffalo chicken, the creaminess of blue cheese, and the crunch of a classic Caesar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chicken breasts with Frank’s RedHot sauce.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, blue cheese crumbles, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add on top of the salad.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Caesar Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad, this Mediterranean-inspired version adds grilled chicken, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced olives.
4. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Chicken Caesar Salad with Sesame Dressing
Elevate your classic Caesar salad game by adding Asian-inspired flavors and a nutty sesame dressing. This twist on the classic combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and crunchy romaine lettuce with a savory and aromatic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook bacon in a pan until crispy. Chop into small pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for the dressing.
8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Caesar Salad with Almond Flour Croutons
A classic Caesar salad gets a low-carb twist with the addition of almond flour croutons and juicy chicken breast. This recipe is perfect for those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups romaine lettuce
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together almond flour, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until croutons are lightly toasted.
5. Grill chicken breast for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
7. Combine cooked chicken, Caesar dressing, and chopped lettuce in a bowl.
8. Sprinkle croutons on top and finish with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken Caesar Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful combination of grilled chicken, tangy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, garlic, and Caesar dressing.
3. Add grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Caesar Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the savory taste of grilled chicken, crispy croutons, and a zesty lemon herb dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. Whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Chicken Caesar Salad with Chickpea Croutons
Transform a classic into a gluten-free delight with this simple recipe. Crispy chickpea croutons and tender chicken are perfectly paired with fresh romaine lettuce and a tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup Caesar dressing (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Dip chicken in beaten eggs and then coat with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F. Drain and rinse chickpeas. Toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
6. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, chicken, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese. Top with chickpea croutons.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Caesar Salad with Ranch Dressing
Elevate your classic Caesar salad game with crispy bacon-wrapped chicken and a tangy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup of croutons
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of Caesar dressing
– 1 cup of ranch dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil and garlic over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top the salad with the cooked chicken breasts and drizzle with Caesar dressing.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful recipe that combines roasted vegetables, juicy chicken, and a tangy Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and Brussels sprouts)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups romaine lettuce
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
6. Slice roasted chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Shrimp and Chicken Caesar Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing
A classic combination of juicy chicken and succulent shrimp, tossed with crispy romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing, gets a rich boost from our creamy garlic sauce. This satisfying salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grill or bake chicken and shrimp until cooked through.
3. Toss chopped lettuce with Caesar dressing.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together garlic and heavy cream.
5. Add Parmesan cheese to the garlic mixture and stir until combined.
6. Combine cooked chicken and shrimp with the dressed lettuce and creamy garlic sauce.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco-Spiced Chicken Caesar Salad with Lime Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the flavors of Mexico and Italy. Crispy chicken, crunchy romaine, and a tangy lime dressing come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and taco seasoning.
3. Toss chicken with the oil mixture and cook for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and Dijon mustard. Season to taste.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad. Drizzle with the lime dressing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 18 creamy chicken Caesar salad recipes! From classic to innovative, each recipe features a unique twist on the original. Try making homemade dressing or adding avocado for an extra boost of creaminess. Or go bold with spicy Sriracha dressing or smoky BBQ flavor. Whether you’re looking for low-carb options or gluten-free alternatives, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering salads. Treat your taste buds to a delicious adventure with these must-try chicken Caesar salad recipes!
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