Chicken Caesar Salad

(59)
Prep Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
45 mins
Servings:
4

With a little advance preparation, the components for this tasty Chicken Caesar Salad can be stored in the fridge and then assembled and served within minutes.

Ingredients

For the Croutons and Chicken

  • 4 ounces Italian bread, cut in ¾-inch cubes (about 4 cups)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • Coarse salt and ground pepper

  • 4 chicken cutlets (each 2 to 3 ounces and ½ inch thick)

  • 1 package romaine lettuce hearts (18 to 20 ounces)

For the Dressing

  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 lemons)

  • ¼ cup reduced-fat mayonnaise

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan

  • 2 anchovy fillets, roughly chopped (optional)

  • 1 small garlic clove

Directions

  1. Make croutons: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place bread on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the oil, and season with salt and pepper; toss to coat. Bake, tossing occasionally, until golden, 12 to 15 minutes; remove from oven; and let cool.

  2. Make chicken: Heat remaining tablespoon oil in a large skillet over high. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until opaque throughout, 1 to 2 minutes per side; remove from skillet and let cool.

  3. Prepare lettuce: Cut romaine crosswise into 1-inch ribbons; wash and dry.

  4. Make dressing: In a blender, combine lemon juice, mayonnaise, Parmesan, anchovy fillets (if using), and garlic; blend until smooth. If preparing this recipe in advance, see storage instructions (below).

  5. If stored in refrigerator, bring chicken and dressing to room temperature. Slice chicken crosswise into strips; toss with croutons, lettuce, and dressing.

    Chicken Caesar Salad

Cook's Notes

Croutons can be made 3 days ahead and stored in a resealable plastic bag at room temperature. Chicken can be cooked and stored, covered, overnight in the refrigerator. Store washed lettuce, in a large bowl with paper towels, and dressing, covered, overnight in the refrigerator. Bring the chicken and dressing to room temperature before serving.

Originally appeared: Everyday Food, June 2006

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