This Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad offers a fresh twist on a classic favorite, featuring crispy chicken cutlets atop crisp romaine lettuce, paired with a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. With options for a healthier dressing using avocado oil or Greek yogurt, this dish provides the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and flavor. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's a satisfying and delicious way to enjoy a lighter version of the traditional Caesar salad.
Caesar Dressing:
1 cup avocado oil (or neutral oil) or Greek yogurt
1 egg yolk (omit if using Greek yogurt)
1 clove garlic, peeled
2 anchovies, packed in oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Juice from 1/2 lemon
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crispy Chicken Cutlets:
1 chicken breast
Kosher salt & pepper
1 egg, beaten
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup flour
2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan frying)
Salad:
5-6 cups romaine lettuce (or kale for a variation)
Freshly shaved Parmesan for topping
Lemon wedges for serving
Make the Dressing: Blend all ingredients except Parmesan cheese with an immersion blender until smooth. Stir in the Parmesan and season to taste. Refrigerate until ready.
Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Pound the chicken to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Breading Process: Set up a breading station with flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), beaten egg, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Coat each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Cook for 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Assemble the Salad: Slice the crispy chicken and place on top of the lettuce. Drizzle with Caesar dressing, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and top with freshly shaved Parmesan.
For a lower-fat version, use Greek yogurt instead of avocado oil in the dressing.
For a different texture, you can swap romaine lettuce for kale.
The dressing can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/crispy-chicken-caesar-salad/