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When it comes to a Chicken Caesar Salad, the chicken is the star of the show. Properly cooked chicken not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your salad is satisfying. There are two popular methods for cooking the chicken: grilling and stovetop sautéing. Each has its own merits, and understanding the nuances can help you achieve the best results.

Homemade Chicken Caesar Salad

Discover the classic Chicken Caesar Salad, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that's perfect for any occasion. This comprehensive guide walks you through selecting fresh ingredients, marinating and grilling succulent chicken, and creating a rich dressing. With tips for assembling your salad for a beautiful presentation, you'll impress family and guests alike. Dive into the world of this timeless favorite and elevate your culinary skills with this delicious recipe!
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Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade for a personal touch)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

1/4 cup Caesar dressing (choose your favorite store-bought version or whip up your own)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Optional: Anchovy fillets for authentic Caesar flavor

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.

      - Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

        - Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for an intensified flavor).

          Cook the Chicken:

            - Preheat your grill or a stovetop pan over medium heat until hot.

              - Place the marinated chicken on the grill or in the pan and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

                - Once fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into strips.

                  Prepare the Lettuce:

                    - While the chicken is grilling, rinse and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

                      - Place the washed lettuce in a large salad bowl, ensuring it is dry to keep the salad crisp.

                        Assemble the Salad:

                          - Layer the sliced chicken on top of the chopped romaine lettuce.

                            - Scatter the croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for a delightful crunch and flavor.

                              - Drizzle the Caesar dressing across the salad. Feel free to add a few anchovy fillets for that classic Caesar salad flavor if you desire.

                                Toss & Serve:

                                  - Gently toss the salad with tongs or two large forks until all ingredients are evenly coated in dressing.

                                    - Serve immediately with a garnish of freshly cracked black pepper and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

                                      Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4

                                        - Presentation Tips: For an elevated presentation, serve the salad in chilled bowls and arrange the chicken artfully on top, scattering croutons and Parmesan creatively for a visually appealing dish.