Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Tender grilled chicken layered over crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing — this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is fresh, hearty, and absolutely irresistible! 🍗🥬

It’s one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or summer meal when you crave something wholesome yet satisfying. Each bite has that perfect combination of smoky chicken, crisp greens, and rich, garlicky dressing. 😋

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The Story Behind the Recipe 💬

Growing up, Caesar salad was always the “fancy salad” in our family — the one we made for special dinners or restaurant copycat nights. But once I started grilling my own chicken for it, it became a staple in our home.

There’s something magical about the combination of smoky grilled chicken and that creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. Add a sprinkle of parmesan and a handful of crunchy croutons, and you’ve got a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and fresh indulgence. 💛

Now, this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a go-to whenever I want a meal that’s both simple and full of flavor — one that feels just as special on a weekday as it does at a weekend gathering.

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What Makes This Recipe Special? ✨

🔥 Smoky grilled chicken – tender, juicy, and flavorful.
🥬 Crisp, fresh romaine – adds that classic Caesar crunch.
🧄 Creamy, garlicky dressing – rich and perfectly balanced.
🧀 Parmesan & croutons – for that irresistible texture and flavor.
⏱️ Quick & easy – ready in 25 minutes!

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor 🛒

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 chicken breasts 🍗
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Juice of ½ lemon 🍋

For the Salad:

• 2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped 🥬
• ½ cup croutons 🥖
• ¼ cup shaved or grated parmesan cheese 🧀
• Optional: cherry tomatoes or avocado slices 🍅🥑

For the Caesar Dressing (Homemade):

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 🍋
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper – to taste

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken and let marinate for 15–20 minutes (or longer if you can).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Set aside to rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Caesar Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with a splash of water if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with dressing until evenly coated. Add croutons and parmesan.

Step 5: Add the Chicken & Serve
Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with extra parmesan and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately and enjoy! 🥗🍋

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With 🍽️

• 🥖 Warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• 🍷 A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
• 🥣 A bowl of soup like tomato basil or creamy potato
• 🍋 Extra Caesar dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling

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Customization & Variations 🧂

🥓 Add bacon: For extra crunch and smokiness.
🥑 Avocado twist: Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
🐟 Seafood swap: Try grilled shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
🌿 Herb upgrade: Add fresh basil or parsley for brightness.
🍞 Homemade croutons: Toss cubed bread in olive oil, garlic, and bake until golden.

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Storing & Reheating 🧊

Store any leftover components separately (chicken, dressing, lettuce) in airtight containers.
Chicken lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave, and toss with fresh salad when ready to serve.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.) ⚖️

Calories: 340
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 18g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions 💭

1. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes! Choose a high-quality Caesar dressing for convenience.

2. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.

3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but store components separately to keep lettuce crisp.

4. Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! They stay juicy and are great for grilling.

5. What lettuce works best?
Romaine gives the perfect crunch, but kale or spinach also work well.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free parmesan and mayo in the dressing.

7. Can I make it low-carb?
Skip the croutons or use roasted chickpeas instead.

8. How do I know when chicken is done?
Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

9. Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Store grilled chicken and dressing separately; assemble when ready to eat.

10. Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra freshness.

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Final Thoughts 🌸

This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and crisp. 🥗✨ It’s light yet satisfying — a wholesome meal that never fails to impress. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this salad brings the taste of summer to your table all year round.

Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and that homemade touch make it a true Mama Cooks Dinner favorite. 💛

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🍽️ Tried This Recipe?

If you made this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, I’d love to hear how it turned out! 💬
👉 Don’t forget to follow @mamacooksdinner on Pinterest for more fresh, flavorful, and family-loved recipes! 💛

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