Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad a New Way
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Recipe Category: Poultry
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 403.4 kcal
Description:
This innovative twist on the classic Caesar salad infuses the dish with vibrant flavors by using warm, freshly grilled chicken breast. While cold, leftover chicken can be used, it’s the technique of placing the warm chicken directly in the dressing that really enhances the overall flavor profile. The chicken absorbs the dressing’s richness and spices, resulting in a deeply satisfying salad. This technique can be easily adapted for other protein-based salads, such as beef or shrimp, when paired with a vinaigrette-style dressing.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breast | 1 (about 4-6 oz per serving) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Romaine lettuce | 1 head, chopped |
| Croutons | 1 cup |
| Minced garlic cloves | 2 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil (for dressing) | 1/3 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (shredded) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 403.4 kcal |
| Fat | 28.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 71.3 mg |
| Sodium | 224.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.8 g |
| Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugar | 2.2 g |
| Protein | 30.8 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dressing:
In a medium-size bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-blended dressing. Set aside for later. -
Grill the Chicken:
Rub the boneless skinless chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring that they are evenly coated. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. -
Slice the Chicken:
After the chicken has rested, slice it crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices. The resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more tender and flavorful. -
Combine Chicken and Dressing:
Place the sliced chicken and its juices directly into the bowl of prepared dressing. Gently toss the chicken slices in the dressing to ensure each piece is well-coated and infused with the flavors of the dressing. -
Assemble the Salad:
On a large platter or individual salad plates, layer the chopped romaine lettuce. Arrange the chicken slices and dressing mixture on top of the lettuce. Sprinkle with croutons and top with a generous amount of shredded Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture. -
Serve and Garnish:
Garnish your salad with a bit more Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t forget to pass the pepper mill for guests who want to add a little more seasoning to their salad. -
Enjoy!
Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm. The combination of the warm chicken, tangy dressing, and crisp lettuce creates a refreshing and filling salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Cooking Tips:
-
Grilling Chicken: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also pan-sear the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil until golden and cooked through.
-
Customization: For a bit of variety, consider adding roasted vegetables or a hard-boiled egg to your salad for extra protein and flavor.
-
Make it Low-Carb: If you’re looking to reduce carbs even further, skip the croutons or use a low-carb alternative.
This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad a New Way offers a refreshing, healthy twist on a traditional favorite, providing a flavorful combination of warm, juicy chicken, tangy dressing, and crisp lettuce. It’s a perfect dish for those looking for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.
