If you are on the lookout for a salad that combines the gratifying crunch of perfectly baked chicken with the fresh, tangy tones of classic Caesar dressing, this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe is your new go-to. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet light, packed with layers of flavor and textures that keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests with something both familiar and extraordinary, this recipe hits all the right notes with ease and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the crisp romaine lettuce providing a refreshing base, to the homemade dressing that brings creamy, garlicky brightness, and of course, the golden chicken tenders adding satisfying crunch and heartiness.
- Romaine lettuce: Fresh and crisp, it forms the crunchy foundation of the salad.
- Croutons: Adds an extra layer of crunch and a toasty flavor contrast.
- Parmesan cheese (shaved and grated): Brings nutty, salty umami that elevates the salad’s flavor.
- Mayonnaise and full-fat plain yogurt: Create a creamy and tangy Caesar dressing base.
- Garlic (grated and minced): Infuses the dressing and chicken with savory depth.
- Freshly ground black pepper and salt: Season everything perfectly, balancing flavors.
- Lemon juice: Offers bright acidity to cut through the creamy dressing and crispy chicken.
- Olive oil: Helps emulsify the dressing and lends a fruity richness.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds sharp, authentic cheese flavor to the dressing.
- Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce: Give the dressing complexity and a subtle zing.
- Chicken tenders: Skin removed for lean, tender bites ready for a crispy crust.
- Egg: Binds the coating to the chicken, ensuring maximum crunch.
- Flour and breadcrumbs: Essential components for the crispy, flavorful chicken crust.
- Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder: Season the crust with warmth and aroma.
- Avocado oil spray: Perfect for crisping the chicken in the oven without excess grease.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, black pepper, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This luscious dressing is the heart of the salad, giving it that irresistible Caesar flavor with a fresh homemade touch. Pop it in the fridge to chill and let the flavors meld while you prepare everything else.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Tenders
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In one bowl, mix together the egg, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful wash for the chicken. Coat each chicken tender thoroughly in this mixture. In a separate bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt for that perfect crispy coating. Dip the tenders in this crust mixture and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Generously spray the chicken with avocado oil to ensure maximum crunch. Bake for 10 minutes, flip over, spray again, and bake another 10 minutes until the tenders are wonderfully golden and the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C). You’ll love how tender and crisp they turn out!
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Chop the romaine lettuce and toss it with half of your chilled dressing, coating every leaf with creamy goodness. On a large serving platter or bowl, layer the dressed romaine lettuce first. Then add the crispy chicken tenders (cut into bite-sized pieces), sprinkle the croutons generously for crunch, and crown it all with shaved Parmesan cheese. Drizzle more dressing on top if you like. This assembly promises a perfect harmony of texture and flavor in every forkful.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Garnishes
While shaved Parmesan is classic, you can elevate your salad by topping it with fresh cracked black pepper or even a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add an extra zesty kick if desired, adding a lively dimension to the creamy dressing and crunchy chicken.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe stands beautifully on its own as a full, satisfying meal, but if you want to round it out for a group, consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a light vegetable soup. Simple roasted asparagus or grilled corn also pair delightfully, balancing the richness of the salad without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the salad in individual glass jars layered with lettuce, chicken, croutons, cheese, and dressing on top. It’s perfect for lunch on-the-go or a casual picnic. Alternatively, present it family-style on a large wooden board garnished with lemon wedges and scattered herbs for a rustic, inviting look that encourages everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the chicken separate from the dressed salad to maintain crispness. Store the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the lettuce and dressing refrigerated in separate containers to preserve freshness and texture.
Freezing
While the salad itself does not freeze well due to the fresh lettuce and creamy dressing, the crispy chicken tenders freeze beautifully. Cool the chicken completely, then place in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to one month. This way you can quickly reheat chicken for future salads or other meals without sacrificing that welcome crunch.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method helps the crust regain its delightful crispness without drying out the juicy meat inside.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lettuce for this recipe?
Romaine is traditional for Caesar salads because of its crisp texture and slightly bitter flavor that balances the dressing well, but you can substitute with sturdy greens like kale or green leaf lettuce if preferred. Just make sure the leaves are fresh and crunchy to complement the chicken.
Is baking the only way to make the chicken crispy?
Baking with avocado oil spray is a healthier technique that still achieves wonderful crispness, but if you prefer, you can shallow fry the coated chicken tenders in oil for an even crispier exterior. Just watch the temperature carefully to avoid greasiness.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken tenders for crispy roasted chickpeas or fried tofu coated in similar spices. The homemade dressing remains delicious and satisfying, making it a fantastic vegetarian option with all the classic Caesar flavors.
How long does the homemade Caesar dressing last?
You can store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Always give it a good stir before using, as natural separation may occur.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If Worcestershire sauce is not available, you can substitute with a splash of soy sauce or a few drops of anchovy paste for that signature umami punch. The dressing’s flavor won’t be identical but will still be deliciously rich.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe is a brilliant blend of freshness, creamy zest, and that crave-worthy crunchy chicken that elevates a simple salad to a truly delightful meal. It’s reliable, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly straightforward to make. I hope you enjoy making it just as much as I do sharing it—happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad features tender, oven-baked chicken tenders with a flavorful, crunchy coating, paired perfectly with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy, tangy homemade Caesar dressing. Ready in just 40 minutes, this classic salad is elevated with a delicious balance of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying and hearty meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup full-fat plain yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salad
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and dried
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
Chicken Tenders
- 8 chicken tenders, skin removed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Avocado oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, full-fat plain yogurt, grated garlic, freshly ground black pepper, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined. Store the dressing in the refrigerator while preparing the chicken and salad to allow flavors to meld.
- Make the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken tenders and ensure they are evenly coated with the egg mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Dip each chicken tender into the crust mixture, coating thoroughly. Place the coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray them generously with avocado oil to help create a crispy crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each tender, spray again with avocado oil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Verify the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Assemble the Salad: Chop the romaine lettuce and toss it with half of the prepared Caesar dressing to coat evenly. Arrange the dressed lettuce in a large serving dish. Slice or cut the crispy chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces and layer them over the lettuce. Add the croutons and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese on top. Drizzle with additional dressing as desired for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, crispy chicken and fresh, crunchy greens with creamy dressing.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken tenders for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the dressing and coating.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially depending on the saltiness of your Parmesan and Worcestershire sauce.
- Avocado oil spray helps achieve a crispy crust but can be substituted with any high smoke-point oil spray if unavailable.
