If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful meal that feels both comforting and a little fancy, the Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe is absolutely what you need. This dish perfectly balances crisp romaine lettuce, juicy grilled chicken, and that creamy, tangy homemade Caesar dressing that will have you reaching for seconds. The homemade dressing, rich with garlic, anchovies, and parmesan, elevates the whole salad from a simple side to a hearty main course. Whether you’re serving this for a casual lunch or a weekend dinner, it’s a total crowd-pleaser with layers of textures and flavors that make every bite a delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe, the ingredients are simple, accessible, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the crisp romaine to the savory anchovies, every element contributes to the vibrant, satisfying taste you’ll love.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing that adds richness and smooth texture.
- Garlic: Finely minced for that punch of flavor that makes the dressing irresistible.
- Anchovy fillets or anchovy paste: Provide the classic umami depth key in Caesar dressing.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and a bit of savory sweetness.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty kick and thickens the dressing naturally.
- Milk: Adjusts the dressing consistency to just the right pourable texture.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
- White bread slices: Used for making crunchy homemade croutons to top the salad.
- Olive oil: For roasting garlic and to crisp up the bread cubes for croutons.
- Streaky bacon: Cooked and chopped, it adds a smoky crunch that’s pure magic.
- Romaine lettuce (cos lettuce): The crisp, refreshing foundation of this salad.
- More parmesan cheese for garnish: To sprinkle on top for that signature cheesy finish.
- Eggs: Cooked to your liking and halved, they add protein and richness.
- Chicken breast fillets: Seasoned and cooked perfectly to crown the salad with tender goodness.
How to Make Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Caesar Dressing
Start by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, anchovy fillets or paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly grated parmesan in a bowl. Whisk together while gradually adding milk to get the dressing to a creamy but pourable consistency. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Making this dressing yourself means you control the balance of flavors, and it tastes so much fresher than store-bought versions.
Step 2: Make the Croutons
Cut white bread into cubes about 2/3 inch thick. Toss these bread pieces with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then roast them in a hot pan or oven until golden and crunchy. Don’t forget to rub a cut garlic clove on the warm croutons right after cooking—they’ll absorb the garlic flavor for the perfect bite of savory crispness.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Prepare the Lettuce
Cook streaky bacon until it’s crispy, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Meanwhile, wash, dry, and chop the romaine lettuce into large chunks. Having your lettuce dry is key because it helps the dressing stick better, ensuring every leaf is every bit as flavorful as possible.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in olive oil over medium-high heat until they’re golden on the outside and juicy inside. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly to maintain all those delicious juices.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine with the homemade Caesar dressing until every leaf is coated with that irresistible creamy goodness. Add the crispy bacon, croutons, and toss gently again. Arrange the salad in serving bowls, top with sliced chicken, halved eggs, and an extra sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect garnish can elevate this salad from amazing to unforgettable. Freshly grated parmesan sprinkled over the top adds a delicate salty crunch, while a few twists of cracked black pepper give it a little extra warmth. Adding halved soft or hard-boiled eggs not only looks beautiful but adds richness that enhances the whole experience.
Side Dishes
While this Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe can definitely stand alone as a meal, it pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp white wine, garlic bread, or even a bowl of minestrone soup. These sides bring balance without overpowering the fresh and tangy flavors in your salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy touch, serve the salad in individual bowls or plates with each topping arranged artfully. Try layering your ingredients in a glass trifle dish to showcase the greens, croutons, bacon, and chicken in colorful strata. You can also serve the dressing on the side for guests who prefer less or more—either way it’s a winner!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which can be rare!), store the salad components separately—the dressing, chicken, and croutons in airtight containers. Keep the lettuce chilled and add it just before serving to avoid wilting and soggy textures.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing the assembled salad is not recommended. However, cooked chicken can be frozen separately for up to 3 months and used later in salads or other dishes.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet with a little olive oil or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating the salad or dressing as they can break down in texture and flavor. Reassemble fresh ingredients just before serving to keep everything vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use bottled Caesar dressing instead of making it from scratch?
While bottled dressing is convenient, homemade Caesar dressing is fresher, more flavorful, and you can adjust it to your taste. It’s worth the extra few minutes for that authentic, rich taste!
What type of lettuce is best for Caesar salad?
Romaine or cos lettuce is the classic choice because of its crisp texture and slightly bitter flavor that holds up well to the creamy dressing.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the anchovies, bacon, and chicken. You can add grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for protein to keep it satisfying.
How do I know when my chicken is cooked perfectly for this salad?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a golden sear outside but stay juicy inside. Rest it a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Are anchovies necessary in Caesar dressing?
Yes, anchovies add that signature umami depth essential to Caesar dressing’s flavor. If you’re not a fan, anchovy paste works just as well, or you can reduce it slightly—but it’s a key ingredient for authentic taste.
Final Thoughts
This Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe is a wonderfully satisfying dish that feels both fresh and indulgent, perfect for any day you want to treat yourself without too much fuss. Once you’ve made your own dressing, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions. Give it a try and enjoy the applause as you serve up something truly special and packed with flavor!
Print
Caesar Salad with Homemade Caesar Dressing and Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 5-6 servings as a side, 2-3 servings as a main with chicken
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Caesar Salad recipe features a creamy homemade Caesar dressing with garlic, anchovies, and parmesan cheese, perfectly paired with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and tender grilled chicken breast. Ideal as a hearty meal or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
For the Caesar Salad Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise (Hellman’s or S&W Whole Egg)
- 1/2 tsp garlic, finely minced
- 2 anchovy fillets or 3/4 tsp anchovy paste
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese or 1/3 cup store bought grated parmesan cheese
- 3 – 4 tbsp milk (to adjust consistency)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Croutons
- 2 – 3 slices white bread, 2/3 inch (1.5 cm) thick
- 1 garlic clove, cut in half
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Salad
- 150g / 5oz streaky bacon, cooked and chopped
- 10 cups cos / romaine lettuce, chopped, washed and dried (about 1 large, 2 medium, or 3 small heads)
- Freshly grated parmesan, for garnish
- 2 – 4 eggs, cooked to your taste, peeled and halved
For the Chicken
- 500g / 1lb chicken breast fillets (2 pieces)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Caesar Salad Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely minced garlic, anchovy fillets or paste, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Whisk together thoroughly. Add milk gradually, 3 to 4 tablespoons, to adjust the dressing to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Croutons: Cut white bread into bite-sized cubes. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Rub the skillet with the cut side of the garlic clove to infuse flavor, then discard the garlic halves. Add bread cubes and sauté until golden and crisp. Sprinkle with salt, toss to combine, and remove from heat. Set aside to cool.
- Cook the Bacon: In a pan, cook the streaky bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Drain excess fat on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breast fillets on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from pan, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add the croutons, chopped bacon, and gently toss again. Arrange halved eggs and sliced chicken breasts on top. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.
Notes
- Note 1: Use mayonnaise with whole eggs for the best creamy texture.
- Note 2: Anchovies add authenticity and umami to the dressing, anchovy paste is a convenient substitute.
- Note 3: Freshly grated parmesan gives a richer flavor, but store-bought is acceptable.
- Note 4: Use slightly stale bread if possible for crisper croutons.
- Note 5: Wash and thoroughly dry romaine to prevent sogginess.
- Optional: Eggs can be cooked to preference—soft-boiled, medium, or hard-boiled.
- Chicken can be grilled instead of pan-cooked for a smoky flavor.
