Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken

There’s something timeless about a Caesar salad. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, freshly grated Parmesan, and a creamy, garlicky dressing all come together in one simple but flavorful dish. It’s light yet satisfying—and when you add grilled chicken, it transforms from a side salad into a complete, protein-packed meal.

What makes this version special is the homemade dressing. It’s smooth, bold, and perfectly balanced with lemon, Parmesan, and just the right touch of anchovy. In just 35 minutes, you can create a restaurant-style Caesar salad right in your own kitchen.

Let’s break down exactly how to make it.

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Why Caesar Salad Is So Popular

Caesar salad has been a menu favorite for decades because it’s simple yet flavorful. The contrast between crisp lettuce and creamy dressing makes every bite interesting. Add crunchy croutons and salty Parmesan, and you have a balanced dish that works as a lunch, side, or main course.

The grilled chicken add-on makes it even more filling and boosts the protein, turning a classic salad into a complete meal.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salad:

• 2 large romaine hearts, chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups seasoned croutons

For the Homemade Caesar Dressing:

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Chicken Add-On:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Each ingredient has a purpose. The romaine provides crunch. Parmesan adds saltiness and depth. Anchovies create umami flavor in the dressing. Lemon juice brightens everything. And grilled chicken adds heartiness.

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Step-by-Step: Homemade Caesar Dressing

I always start with the dressing so the flavors have time to blend.

Step 1: Combine the Base

In a bowl, I whisk together minced garlic, anchovy, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise until smooth.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Oil

Next, I whisk in Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and black pepper until creamy and fully combined.

Then I refrigerate the dressing until ready to use. Chilling helps the flavors deepen.

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Step-by-Step: Grilled Chicken Add-On

Step 1: Season the Chicken

I brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Grill

Over medium heat, I grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 3: Rest and Slice

After grilling, I let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Resting keeps it juicy.

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Assembling the Salad

Step 1: Toss the Lettuce

In a large bowl, I toss the chopped romaine with just enough dressing to coat the leaves lightly.

Step 2: Add Toppings

I top the salad with croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Add Chicken (Optional)

If making it a full meal, I arrange sliced grilled chicken over the top.

Finally, I finish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper.

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Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 34 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14 grams
• Protein: 32 grams

Thanks to the chicken and Parmesan, this salad offers a strong protein boost while still feeling fresh and crisp.

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Tips for the Best Caesar Salad

• Use fresh romaine for maximum crunch.
• Grate Parmesan fresh for better flavor and texture.
• Don’t overdress the salad—light coating is best.
• Add croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.

These small details make a big difference.

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Easy Variations

Want to change things up?

• Add cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
• Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken.
• Make homemade croutons from day-old bread.
• Add a squeeze of extra lemon for brightness.

Caesar salad is simple, but it’s easy to personalize.

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Why Homemade Dressing Matters

While store-bought Caesar dressing is convenient, homemade dressing has a fresher, brighter taste. The balance of garlic, lemon, anchovy, and Parmesan creates depth that bottled versions often lack.

It only takes a few extra minutes—but the flavor payoff is worth it.

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Final Thoughts

Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing is a crisp, creamy classic that never goes out of style. With crunchy romaine, savory Parmesan, and bold dressing, it delivers satisfying flavor in every bite. Add grilled chicken, and you have a complete, protein-packed meal.

In just 35 minutes, you can bring restaurant-quality Caesar salad to your table. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and big flavor—that’s what makes this dish a favorite.