Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Introduction

When it comes to salads, few can compete with the classic Chicken Caesar Salad. But when you add crispy chicken tenders, a creamy homemade dressing, and the freshness of romaine, you’ve got a dish that elevates this staple to a whole new level. I recently made this Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad for my family, and it was an instant hit! The kids loved the crunch of the chicken, while my husband raved about the creamy dressing. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and dried
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved

For the Creamy Caesar 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

For the Chicken Tenders

• 8 chicken tenders, skin removed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Crust

• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Avocado oil spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, grated garlic, black pepper, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This creamy dressing can be stored in the fridge while you prepare the chicken and salad.

2. Make the Chicken Tenders

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• In one bowl, whisk together the egg, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them well in the mixture.
• In another bowl, mix the crust ingredients: flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
• Dip each chicken tender into the crust mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Place the tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Generously spray the chicken tenders with avocado oil to achieve a crispy texture.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then flip the tenders, spray again, and bake for another 10 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

3. Assemble the Salad

While the chicken is baking, cut the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and toss it with half of the prepared dressing in a large bowl.

In a serving dish, layer the dressed romaine, followed by the crispy chicken tenders (cut into pieces), croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with additional dressing to taste.

4. Serve

Serve the salad immediately, enjoying the crispy texture of the chicken alongside the freshness of the romaine and the richness of the dressing. This delightful dish is perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 480

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a refreshing meal.
• Offer additional toppings like bacon bits or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor.
• Drizzle with more lemon juice for added zest.
• Add cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for more veggies.

Additional Tips

1. Dry the Lettuce Well: Make sure the romaine lettuce is thoroughly dried to prevent a watery salad.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan make a significant difference in flavor.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the salt and lemon juice according to your preference.
4. Crispy Chicken: Avocado oil spray is key for achieving a crispy texture without frying.
5. Storage: Keep leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Recipe Variations

• Grilled Chicken: Substitute baked chicken tenders with grilled chicken breast for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or crispy tofu.
• Spicy Caesar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Dressing: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the dressing for a fresh twist.
• Alternative Greens: Use kale or spinach instead of romaine for a different texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a side of soup, such as tomato basil, for a cozy dinner option.
• Include a fruit salad for a refreshing side dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Dressing Storage: Store leftover dressing in the fridge for up to one week.
• Chicken Tenders: You can freeze uncooked chicken tenders after coating them in the crust mixture. Just ensure they are placed in an airtight container. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Salad Storage: It’s best to consume the assembled salad immediately. If storing, keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

• Yes, just add it to the salad without baking, and adjust the dressing amount as needed.

1. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

• Greek yogurt or silken tofu can be great substitutes for a lighter dressing.

1. How can I make this salad gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in the crust.

1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.

1. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container without dressing for up to a day.

1. What type of cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?

• Pecorino Romano or a sharp cheddar would work well as alternatives.

1. Can I bake the chicken without oil?

• For best results, oil helps to create a crispy crust, but you can try baking without it for a lower-fat option.

1. Is this salad low-carb?

• This salad is moderate in carbs, primarily from the croutons; you can omit them for a lower-carb version.

1. How long does it take to make this salad?

• Approximately 40 minutes from start to finish.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The combination of crispy chicken, fresh romaine, and creamy dressing is sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, it’s a dish that brings joy and satisfaction. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as my family does. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

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