Classic Chicken Caesar Salad: The Perfect Recipe In 5 Steps

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Crisp romaine, juicy grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and a tangy, creamy dressing this NYC-style Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner in Brooklyn or a make-ahead lunch for Manhattan commutes, this recipe is foolproof and bursting with authentic Caesar taste. I’ve tested it multiple times to ensure it’s a hit with families and picky eaters alike. Source fresh romaine at Union Square Greenmarket and enjoy a healthy meal in 30 minutes.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Salad

This salad is a crowd-pleaser, balancing bold flavors with wholesome ingredients. The homemade dressing skips store-bought additives, letting you control the taste and nutrition. Whether you’re craving a light meal or prepping for a busy week, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s versatile; swap in grilled tofu for a vegan twist or add extra veggies for more crunch.

Health Benefits of This Salad

This Caesar salad is as nutritious as it is delicious, aligning with the Mediterranean diet’s focus on lean proteins and fresh produce. Chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle health, while romaine offers vitamins A and K for immunity and bone strength (source). Parmesan adds calcium, and the olive oil-based dressing supports heart health (source). Perfect for NYC’s health-conscious eaters.

NYC Sourcing Tips:

Romaine: Pick up crisp, organic romaine at Union Square Greenmarket ($2-3/head).
Chicken: Opt for organic at Whole Foods Chelsea for quality.
Parmesan: Grab authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano at Eataly NYC for bold flavor.
Bread: Use day-old loaves from local bakeries like Orwasher’s for croutons.

Nutrition Information

Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (250-300g, based on 4 servings) for the Classic Chicken Caesar Salad, using Greek yogurt dressing and excluding croutons for a lighter option. Values may vary depending on brands and portion sizes. For personalized advice, consult a nutritionist.

Nutriments	Quantité par Portion	Valeur Quotidienne
Calories	350 kcal	18%
Protéines	30 g	60%
Lipides	18 g	23%
Lipides saturés	4 g	20%
Glucides	15 g	5%
Fibres	4 g	14%
Sucres	3 g	–
Sodium	780 mg	34%
Vitamine A	200 µg (RAE)	22%
Vitamine C	10 mg	11%
Calcium	150 mg	12%
Fer	2 mg	11%

*Based on a 2,000 kcal/day diet. Sources: USDA FoodData Central and Nutritionix. For a vegan version (no chicken or Parmesan), expect ~250 kcal and 15 g protein.

Note: Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary needs, especially for allergies or restrictions.

Harvard Health.

Tips & Variations

Avoid Soggy Lettuce: Dry romaine thoroughly with a salad spinner and dress just before serving.
Healthier Dressing: Swap Greek yogurt for egg yolks to cut calories without losing creaminess.
Vegan Twist: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Try 10 High-Protein Vegan Breakfasts Without Eggs for more plant-based inspiration.
Extra Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for color and nutrition.
Crouton Hack: Use day-old bread from Transforming Stale Bread: 5 Creative Uses for perfect croutons.

My Personal Experience

I tested this recipe twice to perfect the dressing’s balance: creamy but not heavy, tangy but not overpowering. My family loved the homemade croutons, which added a satisfying crunch. Using Greek yogurt instead of egg yolks made it lighter without sacrificing flavor. This salad has become my go-to for quick dinners or meal-prep lunches in my Brooklyn kitchen.

homemade croutons

Pro Tip: Opt for organic romaine for the freshest flavor. Check out Lemon Chicken Olives: A Mediterranean Classic for another zesty chicken dish to pair with this salad. For detailed nutritional data on ingredients like chicken and Parmesan, visit USDA FoodData Central.

troubleshooting Caesar salad

Storage & Meal Prep

Chicken: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Dressing: Refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
Lettuce & Croutons: Keep separate to avoid sogginess. Store lettuce in a paper towel-lined container and croutons in an airtight bag for up to 2 days.
Lunch Prep: Pack components separately in a compartmentalized container. Add dressing just before eating. For more lunch ideas, check Meal Prep Lunches for Work: 40 Cheap & Healthy Ideas.

FAQ

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Swap chicken for grilled tofu or mushrooms and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?
Dry lettuce thoroughly after washing and only toss with dressing right before serving.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead of homemade?
Yes, but homemade dressing offers better flavor and control over ingredients. Look for low-sodium, natural options if buying.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread for croutons or skip them entirely. Double-check that your anchovy paste and Parmesan are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to marinate the chicken for maximum flavor?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. For a bolder taste, try overnight marination in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal you can whip up in just 30 minutes. With its customizable ingredients and easy prep, it’s perfect for any occasion. Have you tried a twist on this recipe? Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate this recipe or share it with friends.