Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Name: Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 513 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic; 2 anchovy filets; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 4 teaspoons red wine vinegar; 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 ounce Parmesan cheese; Salt and ground black pepper to taste; 8 ounces skinless boneless chicken breasts; 1 pound Romaine lettuce; 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup croutons

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings.

Ingredients

Caesar Dressing:

3 cloves garlic
2 anchovy filets
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup mayonnaise
4 teaspoons red wine vinegar
4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 (1-ounce) chunk Parmesan cheese
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Salad:

8 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 pound Romaine lettuce
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup croutons

Directions

Step 1: In a high-powered blender, combine the garlic cloves, anchovy filets, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Blend on high until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Pour half of the dressing into a lidded glass jar. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Place the remaining dressing into a resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken breasts, seal the bag, and refrigerate to marinate overnight.

Step 4: Preheat a gas grill to 400F (200C) and lightly oil the grate.

Step 5: Grill the marinated chicken on the preheated grill with the lid closed. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the chicken is browned and juices run clear. The internal temperature should read 165F (74C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a plate for 10 minutes. Slice the chicken into strips and refrigerate until chilled.

Step 7: While the chicken is cooling, roughly tear the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: Pour the chilled dressing over the lettuce and toss to coat evenly.

Step 9: Divide the salad among four plates. Top each plate with the croutons, shaved Parmesan, and sliced chicken strips. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 384
Total Fat: 28g (35% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 6g (30% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 74mg (25% Daily Value)
Sodium: 728mg (32% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 9g (3% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (9% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 2g
Protein: 24g (49% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 6mg (7% Daily Value)
Calcium: 183mg (14% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (13% Daily Value)
Potassium: 536mg (11% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite by adding grilled chicken to the mix, enhancing the flavors of the traditional Caesar salad with a smoky and savory profile. Paired with homemade Caesar dressing, this dish is a delightful meal for lunch or dinner. Lets dive deeper into the story behind this salad, its regional characteristics, and why it stands out among similar dishes.

Origin Story

The Caesar salad, in its most iconic form, was invented by Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur, in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s. The story goes that Cardini created the dish on the fly when a large crowd arrived at his restaurant on the Fourth of July, and the kitchen was running low on ingredients. The dish was made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a unique dressing, which eventually became famous worldwide. While the grilled chicken version is a more recent adaptation, it has quickly become one of the most popular variations of the classic Caesar salad, particularly in the U.S., where chicken is often added to salads to make them more substantial.

Regional Characteristics

While the Caesar salad itself is of Mexican-American origin, the grilled chicken variation is most commonly found in American cuisine. Its a popular choice in restaurants, especially in the United States, where grilling is a favored cooking technique. The addition of grilled chicken not only makes the salad more filling but also adds a smoky depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy Caesar dressing. Some variations may even include other toppings like bacon bits, avocado, or tomatoes, depending on regional preferences.

What Sets It Apart

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is distinct from other Caesar variations because of the grilled chicken element. Traditional Caesar salads usually feature anchovy-based dressing and romaine lettuce, with some adding grilled chicken or shrimp as an optional topping. The grilled chicken adds a hearty, protein-packed element, turning the salad into a more substantial meal. The smoky flavor from grilling contrasts with the creamy, tangy dressing, creating a balanced, flavorful combination that is more complex than the standard Caesar salad.

Where Is It Commonly Served?

This version of Caesar salad is often served in casual dining restaurants, cafes, and even fast-casual chains, especially in the United States. Its a favorite for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal that combines the freshness of a salad with the protein of chicken. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is typically served as a main course, often accompanied by a side of bread or a light soup. It is also a popular choice for outdoor dining, especially during BBQs and summer cookouts, where the grill can be put to good use in cooking the chicken.

Interesting Facts

1. The Caesar salad was originally prepared tableside, which added to the theatrical experience of dining out. Cardini himself would prepare the salad in front of his guests, ensuring freshness and a personal touch.

2. The grilled chicken Caesar salad has become a favorite for those who prefer a lower-carb, high-protein meal. By adding grilled chicken, the dish transforms into a filling main course, often served with a low-calorie dressing to cater to health-conscious diners.

3. Many variations of the Caesar salad exist worldwide. Some countries, particularly in Europe, include a variety of seafood or even substitute the chicken with grilled beef or pork. The beauty of the Caesar salad lies in its versatility, allowing endless adaptations.

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FAQ about Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but grilling fresh chicken adds flavor and texture that enhances the overall dish. If you opt for pre-cooked chicken, simply skip the marinating and grilling steps and add the chicken once the salad is assembled.

Leftover Caesar dressing can be stored in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients ahead of time. However, it's best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to avoid the lettuce becoming soggy. You can also marinate the chicken a day ahead.

While Romaine lettuce is traditional for Caesar salads, you can substitute it with other greens such as Kale, Arugula, or Butter Lettuce for a different flavor and texture. Keep in mind that the taste and crunchiness may vary.

If you prefer not to use anchovy filets, you can substitute with a teaspoon of anchovy paste or a small amount of Worcestershire sauce, which also contains anchovies. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, miso paste can work as a savory substitute.

After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a moist, flavorful result.

To make this salad gluten-free, simply substitute the croutons with gluten-free croutons or use another crunchy element such as roasted chickpeas or nuts.

Yes, store-bought Caesar dressing can be used if you're short on time. However, homemade dressing adds a fresher taste and is generally more flavorful. If using store-bought, try to find one with minimal additives for the best experience.

It's best to store leftover salad components separately. Store the leftover chicken and dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Avoid storing the salad with dressing already mixed, as the lettuce will become soggy.

This grilled chicken Caesar salad can be served with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light soup. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with grilled fish, steak, or a pasta dish.

Comments

Samantha Wilson

08/20/2022 05:46:58 PM

This dish was fantastic! The garlic in the dressing really stood out, which I absolutely enjoyed. I might reduce the amount of vinegar slightly next time, but everyone in my family enjoyed it just as it was. My teenager even went back for seconds!