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Irresistible Pan-Fried Chicken Caesar Salad features crispy golden-brown chicken cutlets atop fresh romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons, showcasing a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Lady Maria

Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Elevate the classic Caesar salad with crispy, pan-fried chicken! This recipe features juicy, golden-brown chicken, creamy homemade Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and fresh romaine lettuce for a symphony of textures and flavors. A satisfying and customizable meal perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for dressing
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste for dressing
  • 4 slices day-old bread, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for croutons
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for croutons
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt for croutons
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper for croutons
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet (cast iron preferred)
  • Cutting board
  • knife
  • meat thermometer
  • small bowl
  • medium bowl
  • whisk
  • baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Airtight containers
  • paper towels
  • tongs
  • Large bowl for salad assembly

Method
 

  1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. **Season Generously:** In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to help it adhere.
  3. **Heat the Oil and Butter:** In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and butter until the butter is melted and slightly browned.
  4. **Sear the Chicken:** Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  5. **Cook Without Moving:** Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on the first side, without moving it, until a golden-brown crust forms.
  6. **Flip and Cook:** Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
  7. **Rest the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
  8. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the chicken breasts against the grain into thin strips.
  9. **Prepare the Caesar Dressing:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
  10. **Season the Dressing:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lemon juice or Parmesan cheese to your liking.
  11. **Whisk Until Smooth:** Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
  12. **Chill the Dressing:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  13. **Preheat Oven (for croutons):** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  14. **Toss Croutons:** In a medium bowl, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  15. **Bake Croutons:** Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  16. **Cool and Store Croutons:** Let the croutons cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
  17. **Prepare the Lettuce:** In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with a generous amount of Caesar dressing.
  18. **Add the Chicken:** Arrange the sliced pan-fried chicken on top of the lettuce.
  19. **Sprinkle with Croutons:** Sprinkle the homemade croutons over the chicken and lettuce.
  20. **Garnish with Parmesan:** Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
  21. **Serve Immediately:** Serve your Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Store leftover chicken and croutons separately to prevent the croutons from becoming soggy. The assembled salad is best eaten immediately. To make it a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread. Consider adding bacon bits or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.