Craving a quick and healthy meal that packs a punch? Look no further than this classic Chicken Caesar Salad. It’s a timeless dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Let’s dive in!
The Classic Reimagined
The Caesar salad, a culinary masterpiece born in the early 20th century, has captured hearts and taste buds worldwide. Its combination of crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and savory croutons is simply irresistible. Our version takes this beloved salad to new heights with juicy grilled chicken, adding a protein boost to make it a complete meal.
Serves
4 adults
Preparation time
5 minutes
Cooking time
15 minutes
Utensils needed
Chopping board
Chopping knife
Baking tray
Frying pan
Wooden spoon
Mixing bowl
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Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized ciabatta loaf
- 30 ml olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 large Cos lettuce
- 6 tbsp Caesar dressing
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
#you can find all the ingredients in our grocery section or click on that ingredient.
Methods
- Preheat oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6.
- Prepare croutons: Cut ciabatta into 2-cm cubes. Toss with 20 ml olive oil and bake for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
- Cook chicken: Heat 10 ml olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Assemble salad: Tear lettuce into large pieces and place in a bowl. Shred chicken into bite-sized strips and add to lettuce along with croutons.
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Powerhouse
This Chicken Caesar Salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with essential nutrients. The lean chicken provides a good source of protein, while the lettuce offers vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The healthy fats in the olive oil contribute to heart health, and the Parmesan cheese adds a calcium boost.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Main course: Serve with a side of whole-grain bread or roasted vegetables.
- Light lunch: Pair with a bowl of soup or a side salad.
- Appetizer: Divide into individual servings for a refreshing starter.
Plating Ideas
Elevate your salad presentation with these tips:
- Classic: Arrange lettuce in a bowl, top with chicken, croutons, and dressing. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Deconstructed: Create a visually appealing dish by layering lettuce, chicken, and croutons on individual plates. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with Parmesan shavings.
- Mason jar salad: Layer ingredients in a mason jar for a portable and fun option.
Tips and Tricks
- Homemade Caesar dressing: For an extra special touch, try making your own Caesar dressing. It’s easier than you think!
- Gluten-free: Substitute ciabatta with gluten-free bread or croutons.
- Meal prep: Prepare chicken and croutons in advance for quick and easy meal assembly.
- Add-ins: Customize your salad with additional toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or olives.
With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, this Chicken Caesar Salad is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Different Types of Caesar Dressing
While the classic Caesar dressing is the cornerstone of this beloved salad, there are several variations that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Classic Caesar Dressing
This is the traditional version, featuring a creamy base of raw egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovies, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, emulsified with olive oil. It’s rich, tangy, and undeniably flavorful.
Creamy Caesar Dressing
A popular variation that uses mayonnaise as a base instead of raw eggs. This version is milder and less pungent than the classic, making it a good choice for those who prefer a less intense flavor.
Light Caesar Dressing
This option is lower in calories and fat, typically using Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and mayonnaise as a base. It retains the classic Caesar flavor while being lighter on the palate.
Vegan Caesar Dressing
For plant-based eaters, vegan Caesar dressings are available. They often use aquafaba (chickpea brine) as an egg substitute, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and Dijon mustard for tanginess.
Low-Carb Caesar Dressing
This version focuses on reducing carbohydrate intake. It typically uses a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese, with a small amount of a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.
Remember: The beauty of Caesar dressing lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and ratios to create your own unique version.