The Chicken Caesar Salad is a timeless classic that combines the rich flavors of crispy chicken, fresh greens, and zesty dressing. When you add homemade croutons, you elevate this dish to a new level. With a blend of crunchy, savory, and creamy textures, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a hearty dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious recipe!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chicken Caesar Salad from scratch means you can control the ingredients and flavors. This recipe uses fresh, quality ingredients, including juicy chicken and homemade croutons, which are far tastier than store-bought alternatives. Plus, it’s a great way to make a filling yet healthy meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this salad is a winner.
How to Make Best Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Ingredients
For the croutons:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups ciabatta bread cubes
For the chicken:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the salad:
- 2 heads romaine (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Directions
For the Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, parsley, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add ciabatta bread cubes and toss until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
For the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
For the Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, Parmesan, grated garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
For the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced chicken, and croutons.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Top with additional freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
How to Serve Best Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Serve this Chicken Caesar Salad immediately after tossing. It’s best enjoyed fresh while the croutons are crispy, and the chicken is warm. You can also provide extra dressing on the side for those who like a little more!
How to Store Best Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the croutons in an airtight container to prevent them from getting soggy. The chicken and dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken if preferred, and mix everything just before serving.
Tips to Make Best Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
- Opt for day-old bread for croutons for better texture.
- Marinate the chicken longer for more flavor.
- Experiment with additional toppings like bacon or cherry tomatoes for added taste and color.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. It can also be customized to include your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or avocado.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought croutons?
- Yes, but homemade croutons are much fresher and tastier!
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
- You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
How do I make this salad gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free bread for the croutons and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Caesar Salad with crispy croutons!
Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
Ingredients
For the croutons
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups ciabatta bread cubes Use stale bread for better texture.
For the chicken
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk and vinegar.
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1.5 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the salad
- 2 heads romaine (roughly chopped)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan For topping if desired.
Instructions
Preparation of Croutons
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, parsley, grated garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add ciabatta bread cubes and toss until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
Making the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, Parmesan, grated garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced chicken, and croutons.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Top with additional freshly grated Parmesan if desired.
