EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and crunch, you’ve come to the right place! This EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is not just any salad; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. With crispy chicken, crunchy parmesan croutons, and a homemade dressing that’s simply irresistible, this recipe has become a family favorite in my home. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this salad offers something special for everyone.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fresh romaine lettuce and savory components makes it perfect for those days when you want something hearty yet refreshing. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With prep time only taking about 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love crispy chicken, and this salad offers a fun twist on traditional favorites that everyone can enjoy.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the croutons and dressing in advance for an effortless assembly on busy nights!
• Packed with Flavor: The homemade dressing brings zesty brightness that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or customize to your liking for a meal that suits your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each component adds its own unique flavor to create a delightful blend in every bite of your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad.

For the Dressing

• 1 cup / 240g full fat Mayo
• 1/3 cup / 30g freshly grated Parmesan
• 2 Anchovy Fillets
• 2 tbsp Milk (preferably whole milk)
• 1 Lemon (juice only)
• 1 tsp EACH: Dijon Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 small clove of Garlic
• 1/4 tsp EACH: Salt, Black Pepper (or to taste)

For the Chicken

• 2x 7-9oz / 200-250g Chicken Breasts
• 1 cup / 65g Panko Breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup / 40g Flour
• 2 Eggs (beaten)
• 1 tsp EACH: Salt, Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 cup / 240ml Vegetable Oil (for frying)

For the Salad

• 2 large heads of Romaine Lettuce (chopped, approx 8oz/220g EACH)
• 6 slices of Bacon (cooked, cooled & diced)
• 4oz / 120g Ciabatta (preferably day old)
• 1/2 cup / 40g freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt, Garlic Powder & Black Pepper (for croutons)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have at home.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
• Add more greens: Mix in some spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value while adding even more texture.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Try different breads: Use sourdough or whole grain bread for your croutons to enhance both taste and nutrition.

How to Make EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a food processor, blitz together all the dressing ingredients until smooth. This step is crucial because it allows all those bold flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, homemade dressing is always fresher than store-bought!

Step 2: Prep Croutons

Dice your ciabatta bread into small bite-sized pieces. Toss these pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Coating them evenly ensures every piece becomes golden and crunchy while baking—trust me; they’ll be irresistible!

Step 3: Bake Croutons

Spread grated parmesan over parchment paper on a tray and layer your seasoned croutons on top. Bake in an oven preheated to 180C/350F for about 10 minutes until everything turns golden brown. As they cool down, they’ll crisp up even more—perfectly crunchy for topping off your salad!

Step 4: Prep Chicken

Combine salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small pot. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four even pieces. This helps them cook evenly and ensures each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Dredge Chicken

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with half of your seasoning blend; another with beaten eggs; and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining seasoning. Dredge each chicken piece through flour first, then egg, followed by breadcrumbs. Make sure they are coated well at each stage—this is key for achieving that glorious crunch!

Step 6: Fry Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-based pan over medium heat until hot enough for frying (a breadcrumb should sizzle). Fry two pieces at a time for about 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and piping hot throughout. Once cooked, place them on a wire rack so they stay crisp while cooling.

Step 7: Assemble Your Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss together chopped romaine lettuce with your desired amount of dressing—start light; you can always add more! Add in bacon bits and baked croutons before plating individual portions topped generously with sliced crispy chicken. Drizzle over more dressing if you like—it’s hard to resist!

And there you have it—your very own EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Creating the perfect crispy chicken Caesar salad is all about the details, and these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, which results in a crunchier coating on your chicken. This extra texture is what makes your chicken truly crispy and satisfying.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 180C/350F). This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Let Croutons Cool: After baking, allow your croutons to cool on a wire rack. This step helps them crisp up even more as they cool down, providing that delightful crunch with every bite.
• Dress Just Before Serving: To keep your lettuce crisp and fresh, add dressing right before serving rather than letting it sit. Tossing in the dressing too early can lead to wilted greens, which isn’t what we want for our beautiful salad!
• Experiment with Dressings: While this recipe features a delicious homemade dressing, feel free to experiment with different flavors or add-ins like herbs or spices to create a unique twist that suits your taste!

How to Serve EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Presenting your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to enhance your serving style.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness. It adds an aromatic touch that complements the rich flavors.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating elevates the salad’s flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this salad, offering a savory contrast that balances the meal beautifully. Plus, who doesn’t love dipping garlic bread into leftover dressing?
• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled seasonal vegetables not only adds color but also brings a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the chicken and dressing.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side option. The protein from quinoa enhances your meal’s nutritional value while keeping it light.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty addition to balance out the freshness of the salad. They’re comforting yet simple enough not to overpower the main dish.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal! Your friends and family will be raving about how crispy and delightful this chicken Caesar salad is!

Make Ahead and Storage

This EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is not only a delightful dish to serve fresh but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can prepare components in advance, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
• Consume leftovers within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• While I don’t recommend freezing the entire salad, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately.
• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight freezer bag.
• Use frozen chicken within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating croutons; they are best enjoyed fresh. Instead, prepare a new batch if needed!

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this recipe, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some common questions and answers.

Can I make EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad without anchovies?

Absolutely! If you’d prefer to skip anchovies, consider using a bit of extra Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce for flavor instead.

What makes this chicken caesar salad crispy?

The secret to this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad lies in the use of panko breadcrumbs and frying technique. Panko creates a light yet crunchy coating that makes each bite irresistible!

Can I use other types of lettuce for my salad?

Yes! While Romaine is traditional, feel free to mix it up with other greens like kale or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this salad healthier?

To lighten up this recipe, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayo for the dressing. You can also reduce the amount of oil used when frying.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad as much as I do! It’s a fantastic dish that combines crispy textures with fresh flavors—perfect for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try it out, and remember, cooking should always be fun and rewarding. Enjoy every bite!