Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a satisfying and flavorful twist on a classic, combining juicy grilled chicken breasts with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is ideal for summer grilling or an easy, protein-packed meal prep option. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and great served warm or cold.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (or blackened, lemon pepper, etc.)

For the Salad:

• 2 romaine hearts, torn into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup croutons

• ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Caesar Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• 1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp anchovy paste (optional)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste (if using), and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Grill the Chicken
Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F). Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thick for even cooking.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with Cajun seasoning.
Grill for 6–8 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let rest for 3–5 minutes, then slice.

3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan. Add dressing and toss gently to coat.
Top with sliced chicken, additional Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 of 4):

• Calories: 517

• Protein: 34g

• Fat: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 17g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sodium: 942mg

• Vitamin A: 27403 IU

• Calcium: 255mg

  The Power of Grilled Chicken

  The addition of grilled chicken transforms Caesar salad from a side into a full meal. Using a seasoning like Cajun, blackened, or lemon pepper adds complexity and depth, pairing beautifully with the tangy dressing and fresh greens. Grilling the chicken locks in moisture while adding charred, smoky notes that elevate the entire dish. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced grillers.

  Once grilled, the chicken should rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for layering over your salad.

  Homemade Caesar Dressing: Creamy, Bold, and Fresh

  The dressing is the soul of any Caesar salad, and this version delivers creamy richness with a punch of savory umami. Mayonnaise creates a velvety base, while garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (optional) build depth and brightness. Dijon mustard adds a subtle heat, and Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty bite.

  Unlike bottled dressings, this homemade version is free from preservatives and can be adjusted to your liking—more garlic for kick, extra lemon for zing, or anchovy for deeper flavor. Make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days for quick salads anytime.

  A Perfect Crunch from Romaine and Croutons

  Romaine hearts are the classic Caesar base for a reason: they’re crisp, sturdy, and perfect for holding up to creamy dressings. Torn into bite-sized pieces, they provide a refreshing crunch in every forkful. Store-bought croutons add convenience, but for an elevated version, homemade croutons made from cubed sourdough or baguette tossed in olive oil and baked until golden are a game-changer.

  The Parmesan cheese ties everything together with its savory edge. Use a mix of grated and shredded for a blend of flavor and texture, and add extra as garnish for restaurant-style flair.

  Customizations and Variations

  This salad is easy to make your own. Try these twists based on what you have or prefer:

  • Protein swaps: Use grilled shrimp, salmon, or even hard-boiled eggs

  • Lighter dressing: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt

  • Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and anchovy; use chickpeas or crispy tofu for protein

  • Extra veggies: Add halved cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or grilled corn for a fresh touch

  • Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use a chipotle Caesar dressing

  You can also turn it into a wrap by rolling everything in a large tortilla for a quick handheld lunch.

  Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly

  Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad stores well and can be prepped in stages:

  • Grill the chicken and slice in advance—store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Whisk the dressing and refrigerate in a jar for up to 5 days

  • Wash and dry the lettuce, storing it in a salad spinner or sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture

  • Assemble just before eating to preserve the crisp texture of the lettuce and croutons

  For meal prep, layer the ingredients in containers with dressing at the bottom, followed by chicken, then lettuce and croutons on top. Toss before eating for a fresh, non-soggy salad.

  Nutrition and Balance

  Each serving of this salad offers a balanced mix of macronutrients with about 517 calories, 34 grams of protein, and a modest amount of carbohydrates. It’s a satisfying meal that keeps you full thanks to the combination of protein, fiber-rich greens, and healthy fats from the olive oil and dressing.

  With 27403 IU of vitamin A and over 250mg of calcium per serving, it’s also a nutrient-dense option, especially beneficial for bone health and immune support.

  To lighten it up further, reduce the amount of dressing or use light mayo. Swapping in low-fat Parmesan and grilled chicken breast without skin will also reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.

  Serving Suggestions

  Serve Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad:

  • With grilled garlic bread or pita chips on the side

  • Alongside a chilled soup like gazpacho for a summery lunch

  • With sparkling water, lemonade, or a crisp white wine for a light dinner

  • As a main course at barbecues or potlucks—plate individually or serve family-style

  For a more indulgent version, top with a soft-boiled or poached egg so the yolk blends into the dressing for added richness.

  Conclusion

  Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a delicious, no-fuss dish that combines classic flavors with satisfying texture and hearty protein. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for everything from summer dinners to packed lunches. With its crisp romaine, smoky chicken, and creamy homemade dressing, it offers a refreshing take on a beloved favorite—balanced, bold, and sure to become a regular in your mealtime rotation.