This Grilled Caesar Salad is a fun twist on the classic. Picture crunchy romaine, smoky grilled flavors, and creamy dressing all in one yummy bowl. It’s a treat for the senses!
I love the mix of warm and cool in each bite. Plus, who can resist grilled lettuce? It sounds funny, but trust me, it’s surprisingly tasty. Don’t forget the croutons! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Hearts: These bring crunch to the salad. If you can’t find romaine, you can substitute with grilled iceberg lettuce or even kale for a twist!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the norm here, but you could easily use grilled shrimp or tofu if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Leftover rotisserie chicken is another convenient choice!
Caesar Dressing: A good Caesar dressing is key for flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with some anchovy paste, garlic, and lemon juice as a substitute.
Croutons: These add crunch. You can make your own by toasting bread cubes in the oven with olive oil. If pressed for time, any crunchy store-bought variety works too.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is the best for that strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese shreds can work instead.
How Do You Grill Romaine Hearts Perfectly?
Grilling romaine adds a nice smoky flavor and takes away some bitterness. Here’s an easy way to do it:
- Heat your grill to medium-high; this helps get nice grill marks without wilting the lettuce too fast.
- Brush the cut sides of the romaine with olive oil, which helps it grill nicely and prevents sticking.
- Place the romaine cut-side down on the grill for just 2-3 minutes. Watch for a light char – that’s the sign it’s ready!
Removing it right when it’s charred keeps it crisp. Letting it cool slightly before assembling your salad makes it easier to handle.
How to Make Grilled Caesar Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large romaine hearts, halved lengthwise
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Caesar Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your chicken and romaine grill perfectly with great flavor.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
Brush the cut side of the romaine hearts and both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. Then, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over everything to add some tasty seasoning.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into pieces.
4. Grill the Romaine:
Now, it’s time for the romaine! Place the halved romaine hearts cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until they are slightly charred and wilted. Once grilled, take them off the heat.
5. Assemble the Salad:
On a large serving platter, arrange the grilled romaine hearts. Top them with the sliced grilled chicken, croutons, and generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over everything.
6. Add Dressing and Serve:
Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad according to your taste. Serve immediately while it’s fresh and warm. For a zesty touch, provide some fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad just before eating!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caesar Dressing Instead?
Absolutely! Store-bought Caesar dressing is a great time-saver and can be just as delicious. Choose a quality brand for the best flavor, or try making a homemade version if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the amount depending on your taste!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a meatless option, grilled tofu or chickpeas are excellent substitutes. For those who eat seafood, grilled shrimp or salmon would also be delicious! Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The grilled chicken will last up to 3 days, while the romaine should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. To reheat the chicken, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s best to grill the ingredients fresh. However, you can prepare the chicken and romaine a few hours ahead of time. Just store them properly and assemble the salad right before serving to keep everything crisp and tasty!
