Print

Crispy Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Parmesan Crisps

crispy grilled chicken caesar salad - featured image

A smoky, crunchy, and creamy grilled chicken Caesar salad featuring homemade Parmesan crisps instead of croutons, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: pinch of black pepper or Italian herbs for seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over chicken breasts. Marinate at least 15 minutes or start grilling immediately.
  2. Make the Parmesan Crisps: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Place tablespoon-sized mounds of grated Parmesan cheese spaced apart. Flatten slightly. Bake 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cool on tray to harden.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Heat grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) with grill marks and smoky aroma. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
  4. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Assemble the Salad: Toss chopped romaine with dressing until evenly coated. Add cherry tomatoes and red onion. Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top, then scatter Parmesan crisps over everything.
  6. Final Touches: Gently toss salad to mix chicken and crisps with greens or leave crisps on top for extra crunch. Serve immediately.

Notes

If you want a lighter dressing, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to thin it out. Watch Parmesan crisps closely while baking to avoid burning. Rest grilled chicken before slicing for juicy meat. Store Parmesan crisps at room temperature in an airtight container to keep crunchy.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken Caesar salad, Parmesan crisps, easy salad recipe, quick dinner, gluten-free salad, smoky chicken, homemade Caesar dressing