Grilled Romaine Caesar with Chicken

Introduction

The first time I made Grilled Romaine Caesar with Chicken, I was unsure how the family would react to a salad that involved grilling the romaine and adding chicken thighs. However, as soon as the aroma of the sizzling pancetta filled the kitchen, excitement bubbled over. My family gathered around the grill, drawn in by the smoky scent, eagerly anticipating a refreshing yet hearty meal. When it was finally time to dig in, I watched as their eyes lit up with each bite. The combination of the crisp, charred romaine, the juicy grilled chicken, and the creamy, tangy Caesar dressing was a hit. This dish has since become a go-to recipe in our home, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pancetta:

• 6 slices pancetta

For the grilled romaine:

• 2 romaine lettuce hearts, cut in half with the core attached
• Olive oil for drizzling

For the Caesar dressing:

• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 ounce anchovies (about 2-3 fillets)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 extra large egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For serving:

• 3 small tomatoes, sliced into thin circles
• 4 slices sourdough bread
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh black pepper

Instructions

Make Caesar Dressing:

1. In a food processor, combine dry mustard, pepper, salt, anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, egg yolk, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Pulse until smooth.
3. Slowly stream in half of the olive oil, followed by the red wine vinegar. Finally, stream in the remaining olive oil while blending.
4. Add the grated Parmesan and blend until incorporated.
5. Transfer the dressing to a sealed container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Grill Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 170°F). Remove from the grill and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Grill Pancetta:

1. Place a skillet on the grill to heat up.
2. Add the pancetta slices and cook for about 7-8 minutes until crispy, turning occasionally.

Grill Romaine:

1. Lightly drizzle olive oil on the cut side of the romaine lettuce.
2. Place the romaine halves cut side down on the grill for 4-5 minutes until lightly charred.

Toast Sourdough:

1. Drizzle olive oil on one side of each sourdough slice.
2. Toast both sides directly on the grill until golden brown.

Assemble Salad:

1. Place the grilled romaine (cut side up) on a platter or individual plates.
2. Stack two tomato slices and a slice of crispy pancetta on each half of the lettuce.
3. Slice the grilled chicken into 1/2-inch pieces and divide into four portions.
4. Place a portion of chicken on each piece of romaine.
5. Drizzle with the prepared Caesar dressing and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and black pepper.
6. Serve with grilled sourdough toast and additional dressing on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 600
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 35g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Arrange the grilled romaine on a serving platter.
• Top with sliced chicken, pancetta, and tomatoes.
• Drizzle generously with Caesar dressing.
• Serve alongside toasted sourdough for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients significantly impacts the flavor. Opt for fresh herbs and quality olive oil.
2. Adjust Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients based on your taste preference—add more garlic for a stronger flavor or more lemon juice for brightness.
3. Chicken Alternatives: Substitute chicken thighs with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
4. Preheat Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated for better searing and flavor.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing a day in advance to save time on the day of grilling.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with grilled tempeh or chickpeas, and use a vegan Caesar dressing.
• Different Greens: Try using kale or spinach instead of romaine for a nutrient boost.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate grilled zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Herbed Dressing: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil in the dressing for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the salad with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing complement.
• Serve with a side of crispy roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad for a fuller meal.
• Include seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The romaine may lose some crispness over time.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad, as the texture of the lettuce will change. However, you can freeze the dressing in a sealed container for up to a month.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use bottled Caesar dressing instead?
   Yes, you can use store-bought dressing, but homemade dressing adds a fresher taste.
2. Is it necessary to grill the chicken?
   No, you can also bake or pan-sear the chicken if preferred.
3. What if I don’t have anchovies?
   You can omit them, but the dressing will lack the traditional umami flavor.
4. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free bread for toasting and ensure the pancetta is gluten-free.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 170°F.
6. Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
   Absolutely! The dressing can be made up to a week in advance.
7. What other cheeses can I use?
   Besides Parmesan, you can try Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative.
8. Can I make this salad without meat?
   Yes, simply skip the chicken and pancetta for a delicious vegetarian option.
9. What can I substitute for sourdough bread?
   Any crusty bread or ciabatta works well for toasting.
10. How long does the grilled romaine last in the fridge?
    It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Grilled Romaine Caesar with Chicken is not just a salad; it’s an experience that combines grilled flavors, creamy dressing, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. With its balance of textures and rich flavors, it’s a wonderful way to elevate your salad game. Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!

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