EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

If you’re looking for a show-stopping salad that can steal the spotlight at any dinner table, let me introduce you to my EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad! It’s a delightful mix of crispy chicken, crunchy parmesan croutons, and a homemade dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes but also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved favorite in my kitchen.

Whether you’re prepping for a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this salad offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar without spending all day in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe comes together in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves crispy chicken, and this salad is no exception—perfect for both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and toss everything together right before serving.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of homemade dressing and crispy elements creates a taste explosion that’s simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to personalize it with your favorite toppings or dressings for your unique twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

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

This salad is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize it:

• Swap the protein: Try grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Throw in some cherry tomatoes or avocados for added freshness and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Use feta or blue cheese if you want a bolder taste.
• Make it vegan: Substitute mayo with a plant-based version and skip the bacon.

How to Make EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In your trusty food processor, blitz together all the dressing ingredients until smooth. This step is vital as it combines all those delicious flavors into one creamy sauce that will elevate your salad.

Step 2: Prep Croutons

Dice your ciabatta bread into small bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. These croutons will add an amazing crunch to your salad!

Step 3: Bake Croutons

Spread grated parmesan on parchment paper on a tray. Layer the tossed bread pieces on top and bake at 180C/350F for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Allowing them to cool will help them crisp up even more!

Step 4: Prep Chicken

Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create evenly sized pieces. Seasoning with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper adds flavor right from the start.

Step 5: Dredge Chicken

Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour mixed with half of your seasoning blend, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining seasoning. Dredging ensures each piece is fully coated for that extra crunch when fried.

Step 6: Fry Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-based pan over medium heat until hot enough that breadcrumbs sizzle immediately when added. Fry two chicken pieces at a time for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Placing them on a wire rack afterward helps maintain their crispiness.

Step 7: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with your preferred amount of dressing – start light and add more as needed! Mix in diced bacon and croutons before plating individual servings topped off with sliced crispy chicken. Drizzle extra dressing if desired.

Now you have an incredible EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every tasty bite!

Pro Tips for Making EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Creating the perfect EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is all about attention to detail and a few extra steps that make a world of difference. Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad turns out restaurant-quality!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh romaine lettuce and high-quality parmesan cheese elevate the flavor. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also add appealing textures and colors to your dish.
• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier chicken, consider double-dipping your chicken in the egg wash and breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker coating, which results in a crunchier texture when fried.
• Control Your Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil stays at the optimum frying temperature (around 180°C/350°F). If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil; too hot, and it may burn before cooking through.
• Let Your Croutons Cool: After baking, let your croutons cool completely on a wire rack. This helps them firm up for that delightful crunch you want in every bite.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste. Adding a hint of garlic or substituting lemon with lime can give your dressing a unique twist that personalizes this classic dish!

How to Serve EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

Serving this salad is all about presentation and enhancing its flavors! You can serve it as an impressive main course or as a delightful side dish at gatherings. Here are some creative ways to present this dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for added color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor when squeezed over the salad.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add thin shavings of parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the salad perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, add color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the chicken salad.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes serves as a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken caesar salad.
• Soup of the Day: Pairing with a hearty soup like minestrone or tomato basil can create a comforting meal that warms you from within.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad will shine as a star dish at any table! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them right before serving, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad components separately to maintain freshness.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the croutons stored in a sealed bag or container at room temperature to prevent sogginess.
• The dressing can be stored in the fridge for about a week; just give it a good shake before using.

Freezing

• While it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken if needed.
• Wrap individual chicken portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag.
• The chicken will stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when ready to use.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen chicken, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the salad greens and croutons; instead, prepare fresh lettuce and croutons for optimal texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you as you prepare your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad.

Can I make this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad without anchovies?

Yes! If you’re not keen on anchovies, you can simply omit them from the dressing. You might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce or a touch of extra lemon juice for added flavor.

How do I get my chicken extra crispy?

The key to achieving that delightful crunch is properly coating your chicken with breadcrumbs and frying it at the right temperature. Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 180C/350F) before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I meal prep this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad?

Absolutely! You can prepare all elements ahead of time—store them separately—and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness and crunch.

What type of lettuce is best for Caesar salad?

Romaine lettuce is traditional for Caesar salads due to its crunchy texture and sturdy leaves. It holds up well with creamy dressings like the one used in this recipe!

How long will leftovers last?

If stored properly, leftover components can last about 3 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep everything separate until you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad as much as I do! It’s not only bursting with flavors but also makes mealtime feel special. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad brings everyone together with its deliciousness. So go ahead, whip up this beautiful dish, and savor every bite. Happy cooking!