Save to Pinterest Experience a light and refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad with this Yogurt Caesar Grilled Chicken Salad. By featuring a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing and tender grilled chicken strips atop crisp romaine lettuce, this dish provides a protein-packed meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes.
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This American-style salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner. The combination of garlic powder, dried oregano, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant-style Caesar, while the addition of cherry tomatoes adds a vibrant pop of color.
Ingredients
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- For the Grilled Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- For the Yogurt Caesar Dressing: ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk), 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 small garlic clove, finely minced, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- For the Salad: 2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped, ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional), ½ cup homemade or store-bought croutons, ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Step 2
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Step 4
- While chicken is grilling, prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5
- In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and croutons. Drizzle with the yogurt Caesar dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6
- Top salad with grilled chicken strips and shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to remain safe and juicy. Resting the chicken for at least 5 minutes before slicing is essential to keep the moisture inside the meat. Whisk the dressing until it is completely smooth and creamy for the best texture.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the croutons with toasted nuts. If you prefer a more traditional Caesar flavor, you can add anchovy paste to the dressing. For a more intense flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken in a portion of the dressing for 30 minutes before grilling.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this salad immediately after tossing with the dressing to ensure the romaine stays crisp and the croutons remain crunchy. For an extra touch of elegance, serve in chilled bowls and top with additional shaved Parmesan cheese and a crack of fresh black pepper.
Save to Pinterest This Yogurt Caesar Grilled Chicken Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into a high-protein diet. With 340 calories and only 12g of carbohydrates per serving, it is a guilt-free way to enjoy a restaurant favorite at home. Enjoy your fresh and healthy meal!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and prepare the dressing up to 4 hours ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and croutons from becoming soggy.
- → What temperature should the chicken reach?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy and tender.
- → How can I make this dressing if I don't have Greek yogurt?
Plain regular yogurt works well as a substitute, though it will be slightly thinner. You may need to reduce the amount slightly. For a creamier texture, blend in a small amount of mayonnaise or sour cream.
- → Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store the grilled chicken, dressing, and lettuce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep croutons in a dry container. Assemble bowls fresh when ready to eat for best texture and flavor.
- → What gluten-free alternatives work best?
Replace standard croutons with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch and extra protein. Verify that all packaged ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- → Can I add anchovy to the dressing?
Yes, anchovy paste adds authentic Caesar flavor. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust to taste. Dissolve it in the lemon juice before whisking with other ingredients for even distribution throughout the dressing.
