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If you’re craving something that combines bold flavors, satisfying crunch, and a refreshing bite, this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender chicken tenders coated in a perfectly seasoned crispy crust, paired with crisp romaine lettuce, a creamy tangy dressing, and a sprinkling of Parmesan that delivers just the right savory note. This salad is not just a light lunch or dinner, but a nourishing experience that hits all the right taste and texture notes, guaranteed to become one of your quick go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe is chosen to bring balance and excitement to every bite. From fresh greens adding crunch and color to the creamy dressing components and the perfectly seasoned chicken, these elements work harmoniously to make the dish both simple and irresistible.
- Romaine lettuce: Fresh and crisp, it provides the essential crunch and refreshing base for the salad.
- Croutons: Offer an extra layer of crunch and a hint of garlic and herb flavor to complement the tender chicken.
- Parmesan cheese (shaved and grated): Adds a rich, salty, umami flavor that elevates the dish to classic Caesar heights.
- Mayonnaise and full-fat plain yogurt: Create a creamy, tangy dressing that’s lighter than traditional Caesar but just as satisfying.
- Garlic (fresh): Grated or minced to infuse the dressing and chicken coating with a bold punch.
- Lemon juice: Provides brightness and a zesty lift that balances the richness of the dressing and chicken.
- Olive oil: Gives the dressing a velvety texture and depth of flavor.
- Parmigiano Reggiano and Dijon mustard: Both add complexity and a slightly tangy, sharp note to the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce: A subtle layer of savory umami that ties the whole dressing together.
- Chicken tenders: Skin removed for lean protein coated in a deliciously seasoned crispy crust.
- Egg and lemon juice mixture: Helps the crust adhere perfectly while adding moisture and subtle flavor.
- Flour, breadcrumbs, and spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper): Make up the irresistible coating that’s packed with flavor and crunch.
- Avocado oil spray: Enables crisp baking of the chicken without excess grease, keeping it light yet crispy.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the creamy ingredients—mayonnaise and yogurt—ensuring a smooth base. Add in freshly grated garlic for a sharp note, lemon juice for acidity, and olive oil for richness. Grated Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce bring that classic Caesar depth, while ground black pepper and salt season it perfectly. Store this delicious dressing in the fridge to let the flavors come together while you move on to the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Tenders
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), an ideal temperature for getting that perfect golden crust. In the first bowl, whip together the egg, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful marinade that tenderizes and seasons the chicken. Dip each chicken tender into this mixture to coat thoroughly. In a second bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt for a vibrant and crispy coating. Dredge the tenders in this crust mixture until fully covered, then arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spritz with avocado oil spray to ensure they crisp up beautifully without excess grease. Bake for 10 minutes, flip each tender, spray again, and bake for another 10 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
While the chicken is baking, chop the romaine into bite-size pieces and toss it gently with half of your homemade dressing to coat every leaf with creamy goodness. Once the chicken is ready, slice it into pieces and layer them over the dressed lettuce in a large serving dish. Sprinkle the salad with crunchy croutons and plenty of shaved Parmesan cheese. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle additional dressing on top to your taste. Serve immediately to enjoy all the crisp textures and vibrant flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe with fresh lemon wedges for an extra citrusy zing and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to add a subtle kick. A few anchovy fillets or a dash of anchovy paste can also deepen the classic Caesar flavor if you love that savory punch. Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a lovely burst of color and aroma, making your salad as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a standalone meal but pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for those who want to soak up every last bit of dressing. A light soup or grilled vegetables also complement the salad nicely, turning it into a well-rounded, satisfying meal without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or glass bowls for an elegant yet casual presentation that’s perfect for gatherings. For a fun twist, assemble the salad as a build-your-own station with bowls of toppings and extra dressing on the side. Another idea is to stack the salad ingredients in layers on a large platter for a visually stunning centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe fresh, store leftover salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing and chicken tenders separately to maintain the best texture—the chicken stays crispy, and the greens stay crisp without wilting.
Freezing
While the chicken tenders freeze well, the fresh romaine lettuce and dressing do not. For best results, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months and can be reheated directly from frozen for a quick addition to your salad.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy. Once reheated, assemble your salad fresh to enjoy the full crunch and flavor the Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe promises.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders so they cook evenly. The coating and baking method stay the same, ensuring your chicken is just as crispy and flavorful.
Is there a way to make the dressing dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and choose a vegan mayonnaise. The flavor won’t be quite the same but will still be delicious and creamy.
How do I make extra crunchy croutons at home?
Use day-old bread cut into cubes, toss them lightly in olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp—usually 10–15 minutes. Homemade croutons add a fresh, personal touch to your salad.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
You can grill the chicken, but the crust texture will be different since it won’t bake to the same crispness. Consider grilling plain marinated tenders and adding crunch with extra croutons if you prefer a grilled flavor.
What alternatives are there for avocado oil spray?
Any neutral oil spray like canola or vegetable oil works in a pinch. You can also lightly brush the chicken tenders with olive oil before baking as an alternative to spraying.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe enough—whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing meal or a satisfying weeknight dinner, it checks every box with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and that unbeatable crispy chicken. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes to share with family and friends.
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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 combines tender, oven-baked chicken tenders coated in a flavorful seasoned crust with fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich, tangy homemade Caesar dressing. Ready in just 40 minutes, it offers a satisfying, crispy texture and vibrant taste perfect for a hearty lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and dried
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
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
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 mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, black pepper, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Store the dressing in the refrigerator while preparing the chicken and salad.
- Make the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In one bowl, whisk the egg with lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Coat the chicken tenders thoroughly in this egg mixture. In a separate bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Dip each tender into the crust mixture to coat evenly, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray tenders liberally with avocado oil. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip, spray again, and bake another 10 minutes until golden and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Assemble the Salad: Chop the romaine lettuce and toss it with half of the dressing to coat evenly. On a large serving dish, layer the dressed romaine, then add the crispy chicken tenders cut into pieces, croutons, and shaved Parmesan. Drizzle additional dressing on top as desired.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the crispy texture and fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Using avocado oil spray helps achieve crispiness without adding excessive fat.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing according to your taste preference.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute mayonnaise with additional yogurt.
- To save time, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead; the flavors will deepen.
