This Grilled Caesar Salad is a fun twist on the classic! Imagine crisp romaine lettuce, lightly charred to add a smoky flavor, all dressed in creamy Caesar dressing and topped with crunchy croutons.
I love firing up the grill for this salad—it’s quick and makes veggies taste amazing! Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends at a BBQ without too much hassle. 🥗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This is the star of the salad. Its crisp, sturdy leaves hold up well to grilling. If you can’t find romaine, try using iceberg lettuce, though it won’t have the same flavor. I love using organic, so it’s fresh and flavorful.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer, substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier option. Grilling leftover rotisserie chicken is also a great time-saving idea!
Croutons: Store-bought croutons are fine, but homemade ones can take the salad to the next level. Simply cube stale bread, toss it with olive oil and seasonings, then bake until golden. They’re much fresher!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty richness. You could swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Caesar Dressing: Homemade dressing gives you control over flavors. If you’re short on time, a store-bought version works. Look for one with quality ingredients without too many preservatives.
How Do I Grill the Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve juicy, perfectly cooked pieces. First, make sure your grill is preheated. This helps to sear the chicken and keeps it from sticking.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and add salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps here!
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to maintain juiciness before slicing it.
How to Make Grilled Caesar Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 heads of romaine lettuce
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Grilled Caesar Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes grilling the chicken and romaine. It’s a quick, delicious option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill and Chicken:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats up, take the chicken breasts and brush them with olive oil. Don’t forget to season them well with salt and pepper! The oil will help keep them moist while grilling.
2. Grilling the Chicken:
Once the grill is ready, place the chicken on it. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into nice, juicy strips.
3. Preparing the Romaine Lettuce:
While the chicken is resting, it’s time to get the romaine ready! Cut the heads of romaine in half lengthwise. Drizzle them with a little olive oil, and also season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Grilling the Romaine:
Now, place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until they get a lovely char and start to wilt. Carefully remove the grilled romaine from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter.
5. Assembling the Salad:
Top the grilled romaine with the sliced chicken, croutons, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle your favorite Caesar dressing over the top to your liking. It’s okay to make it as creamy as you want!
6. Serving Up:
To finish off your Grilled Caesar Salad, bring out some lemon wedges for a little fresh twist. Serve your salad right away and enjoy the tasty grilled flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine lettuce is traditional for Caesar salad, you can also use other sturdy greens like kale or even grilled endive for a unique twist. Just remember that some lettuces may have a milder flavor, so adjust your dressing accordingly!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply leave out the chicken and add some grilled vegetables instead, like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also add a plant-based protein, such as chickpeas, for added substance!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the grilled chicken and romaine in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to wait to drizzle the dressing and add croutons until just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and grilled romaine ahead of time. Grill the chicken and romaine earlier in the day, then slice the chicken and store in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture!
