Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad
A delightful blend of crispy chicken, vibrant greens, and creamy dressing, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain yogurt (full fat)
- 3 cloves garlic (grated or finely minced)
- ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt or more to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup Parmigiano Reggiano (grated)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Chicken
- 8 strips chicken tenders remove filmy skin
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 large garlic clove (minced)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- Avocado oil spray for spraying chicken
For the Salad
- 1 head large romaine lettuce (washed and dried)
- 1 cup croutons (any kind)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (shaved)
Instructions
Preparation of Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, plain yogurt, grated garlic, black pepper, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire Sauce.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparation of Crispy Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
- In a second bowl, beat the egg with a teaspoon of lemon juice and minced garlic.
- Place the bread crumbs in a third bowl.
- Dip each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with bread crumbs.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with avocado oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. They should be tender when pierced.
Assembly
- While the chicken is baking, chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in large serving bowls.
- Once the chicken is done, slice it into strips and arrange them over the bed of lettuce.
- Drizzle the creamy dressing generously over the salad, then sprinkle with shaved parmesan and top with croutons.
- Toss gently to combine and enjoy immediately!
Notes
Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is best served just after assembling. Pair with a refreshing lemonade or a crisp white wine. Store any leftovers separately in an airtight container.