Name: Best Chicken Caesar Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 Chicken Thighs; 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 Tablespoon Paprika; 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder; Salt & Pepper (to taste); 5 Slices Sourdough Bread (I use a gluten free sourdough); 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder; 1/2 Teaspoon Salt; 1/2 Cup Avocado Mayo or Greek Yogurt; 1/4 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice; 3 Cloves Garlic (minced); 2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard; 1 Teaspoon Anchovy Paste; 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated); 1 Teaspoon Salt; 2 Heads Romaine Lettuce (chopped); 4 Cups Kale (chopped); 2 Cups Carrots (grated or shredded); 4 Strips Bacon; 1/2 Cup Pecans (chopped & toasted); Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)

This is the Best Chicken Caesar Salad, and it's the real deal. Think juicy chicken, a creamy homemade Caesar dressing, bacon, freshly grated Parmesan, colorful veggies, and toasted nuts-all topped with garlic-infused croutons. It honestly couldn't get any better. 🌿

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How To Make The Best Chicken Caesar Salad

This isn't your average Chicken Caesar Salad. It's loaded with so many textures and flavors, from the crispy chicken thighs, to the crunchy croutons, bacon, fresh veggies, and the homemade Caesar dressing.

The Best Chicken Caesar Salad Ingredients

Chicken Thighs

The chicken is the most delicious. I use chicken thighs instead of breasts because they're juicier and more flavorful.

8 Chicken Thighs
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Paprika
1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
Salt & Pepper

Homemade Croutons

Croutons add that satisfying crunch to your salad, and using gluten-free sourdough ensures this dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

5 Slices Sourdough Bread (Gluten-Free)
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
½ Teaspoon Salt

Caesar Dressing

A creamy Caesar dressing is what brings the entire salad together.

½ Cup Avocado Mayo or Greek Yogurt
¼ Cup Fresh Lemon Juice
3 Cloves Garlic (Minced)
2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
1 Teaspoon Anchovy Paste
½ Cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)
1 Teaspoon Salt

Salad Greens & Toppings

This salad is packed with a mix of romaine lettuce, kale, carrots, and some savory toppings like bacon and pecans to add crunch and extra nutrients.

2 Heads Romaine Lettuce (Chopped)
4 Cups Kale (Chopped)
2 Cups Carrots (Grated or Shredded)
4 Strips Bacon
½ Cup Pecans (Chopped & Toasted)
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)

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Step-By-Step Instructions

To make this salad, you'll start by preparing the chicken thighs. Rub them with a mixture of olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet or on he grill until they're crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Chicken is generally safe to eat when the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, let them rest while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Next, make the croutons. Simply cut the gluten-free sourdough bread into cubes, toss them in bowl in olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Get out a baking pan and bake until they're golden and crispy. This should take about 30 minutes.

For the Caesar dressing, combine avocado mayo (or Greek yogurt), fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste, freshly grated Parmesan, and salt in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the salad by tossing chopped romaine lettuce, kale, grated carrots, crispy bacon, and toasted pecans in a large bowl. Drizzle with the homemade Caesar dressing, top with freshly grated Parmesan, and add the chicken thighs. Finish with the crunchy croutons, and your Chicken Caesar Salad is ready to serve!

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Alternative Ingredients & Suggestions

One of the best things about Chicken Caesar Salad is its versatility. If you're looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary preferences, here are some alternative ingredients and suggestions to consider:

Protein Swap: While chicken thighs bring incredible flavor and juiciness to this salad, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts for a leaner option. If you're in the mood for something different, try grilled shrimp or seared salmon for a seafood twist. For a plant-based version, crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas work beautifully.

Dairy-Free Dressing: If you're avoiding dairy, swap out the Parmesan cheese in the dressing with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo as the base for your dressing to keep it creamy and rich.

Veggie Variations: Feel free to get creative with your greens and veggies! Spinach, arugula, or even shredded Brussels sprouts for extra texture and flavor. Toss in some sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and creaminess.

Nuts and Seeds: Pecans add a lovely crunch, but if you're looking to mix it up, try toasted almonds, walnuts, pistachios, or sunflower seeds.

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Frequently Asked Questions?

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs in this Caesar salad?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this Caesar salad. Chicken breasts are leaner and still provide great flavor, but be sure to cook them carefully to retain their juiciness.

How do I make gluten-free croutons for Chicken Caesar Salad?

To make gluten-free croutons, use slices of gluten-free sourdough bread. Cut the bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then bake until golden and crispy. These croutons add a delightful crunch to your salad.

What is the best dressing for a Chicken Caesar Salad?

The best dressing for a Chicken Caesar Salad is a homemade Caesar dressing made with avocado mayo or Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan.

How can I make a healthier Chicken Caesar Salad?

For a healthier Chicken Caesar Salad, use Greek yogurt in the dressing instead of mayo, opt for grilled chicken breasts instead of thighs, and increase the amount of kale and other vegetables. You can also reduce or skip the bacon for a lighter version.

What can I substitute for anchovy paste in Caesar dressing?

If you prefer not to use anchovy paste, you can substitute it with Worcestershire sauce to still get that umami flavor. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely, though it will slightly alter the traditional Caesar taste.

Is This Chicken Caesar Salad gluten-free? How Is It Gluten Free?

This Chicken Caesar Salad can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free sourdough bread for the croutons and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free. The result is a delicious, gluten-free version of the classic Caesar salad.

Enjoy!

This Best Chicken Caesar Salad recipe is everything you want in a salad and more. It's hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. With juicy chicken thighs, crispy gluten-free croutons, and a zesty homemade dressing, it's bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, with the added benefits of kale, carrots, and toasted pecans, you're getting a nutrient-packed dish that's both delicious and nutrient dense. Try it out for your next meal, and let me know what you think! Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy