Extra Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad – Irresistibly Crunchy …
There’s something truly delightful about a big bowl of EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad. It’s the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors that can brighten up any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family night, or just treating yourself after a long day, this salad is sure to impress. The crispy chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while the homemade dressing brings everything together with a burst of flavor.
What I love most about this recipe is how it combines classic elements in a fun and delicious way. It’s not just your average salad; it’s a complete meal that feels indulgent yet fresh. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but fancy enough for special occasions. Trust me; once you try this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad, it will become your go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Crispy chicken: The golden-brown fried chicken breast gives each bite an irresistible crunch.
– Homemade dressing: A creamy and zesty dressing made from scratch elevates the flavors like nothing store-bought can match.
– Easy croutons: Simple baked parmesan croutons add texture and taste without any fuss.
– Versatile: Perfect as a main course for dinner or a hearty lunch option; it works for any occasion.
– Crowd-pleaser: With its familiar flavors and vibrant presentation, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dressing
– 1 cup full fat Mayo
– 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
– 2 Anchovy Fillets
– 2 tbsp Milk (preferably whole milk)
– 1 Lemon (juice only)
– 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
– 1 small clove of Garlic
– 1/4 tsp Salt
– 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
For the Chicken
– 2x Chicken Breasts (7-9oz each)
– 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Flour
– 2 Eggs (beaten)
– 1 tsp Salt
– 1 tsp Garlic Powder
– 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
For Frying & Serving
– 1 cup Vegetable Oil (for frying)
– 2 large heads of Romaine Lettuce (chopped)
– 6 slices of Bacon (cooked, cooled & diced)
– 4oz Ciabatta (preferably day old)
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
– 1 tbsp Olive Oil
– Salt, Garlic Powder & Black Pepper (for croutons)
Variations
One of the great things about salads is their flexibility! Here are some fun variations to customize your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad:
– Swap the protein: Try grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.
– Add veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or avocado slices to boost freshness and flavor.
– Change up the greens: Mix in spinach or kale for added nutrients and variety in texture.
– Experiment with toppings: Include roasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch factor.
How to Make EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by making the dressing. In a food processor, combine the mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmesan, anchovy fillets, milk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic clove, salt, and black pepper. Blitz until smooth. This creamy dressing is essential as it ties all the components of your salad together with rich flavor.
Step 2: Prep Croutons
Next up are those delicious croutons! Dice your ciabatta bread into small bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil along with pinches of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This step helps ensure every piece gets evenly flavored before baking.
Step 3: Bake Croutons
Line a tray with parchment paper and spread out your grated Parmesan evenly. Then spread your seasoned croutons over the cheese layer. Bake in an oven preheated to 180C/350F for about 10 minutes or until both croutons and cheese turn golden brown. Allow them to cool on the rack; they’ll crisp up even more as they sit!
Step 4: Prep Chicken
While your croutons are baking, let’s prepare that crispy chicken! In a small pot, combine salt, garlic powder, and black pepper for seasoning. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four even-sized pieces—this ensures they cook quickly and evenly.
Step 5: Dredge Chicken
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with half of your seasoning blend; another with beaten eggs; and finally one filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with the remaining seasoning. Dredge each piece of chicken through the flour first, then dip into eggs before coating thoroughly with breadcrumbs. This triple-layering technique gives you that signature crispy crust.
Step 6: Fry Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-based pan over medium heat until hot enough that breadcrumbs sizzle when dropped in (around 180C/350F). Fry two pieces of chicken at a time for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re deep golden brown and cooked through. Once done, place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil before slicing into strips once cooled.
Step 7: Assemble Your Salad
In a large mixing bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with your desired amount of homemade dressing—start light; you can always add more later! Gently fold in diced bacon and baked croutons before serving individual portions topped with sliced crispy chicken strips. Drizzle additional dressing over if desired for extra flavor!
And there you have it—the ultimate EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad ready to delight your taste buds! Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Pro Tips for Making EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad
Making the perfect EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad is all about the details! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table.
– Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken that extra crunch you crave. Make sure to coat your chicken generously for maximum texture.
– Let the Croutons Cool: After baking your croutons, allow them to cool on a wire rack. This will help them crisp up even more, ensuring they stay crunchy when mixed with the dressing.
– Fry in Batches: Frying the chicken in batches prevents overcrowding in the pan, ensuring an even cook and that coveted crispy texture. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth the wait!
– Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh romaine lettuce and high-quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly. The freshness truly makes a difference!
– Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the seasoning in both the chicken and dressing according to your preference. Start small and add more as needed.
How to Serve EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad
Serving this delightful salad can be as fun as preparing it! With vibrant colors and textures, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.
Garnishes
– Freshly Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
– Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an added zesty kick that guests can squeeze over their salad.
Side Dishes
– Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of this salad.
– Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables complements the meal beautifully.
– Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds additional nutrients and balances out the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Preparing meals ahead of time can save you stress during busy weekdays. Here’s how to store your EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad properly.
Storing Leftovers
– Keep leftover dressing separate from the salad to prevent sogginess. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Store any leftover croutons separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing
– While it’s best not to freeze dressed salads due to texture changes, you can freeze cooked chicken separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
– To reheat frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it gently on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating croutons; instead, make fresh ones for optimal crunch!
FAQs
If you have questions about making this delicious salad, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.
Can I use other types of lettuce?
Yes! While romaine is classic, you can experiment with other greens like kale or mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t like anchovies?
If anchovies aren’t your thing, you can omit them from the dressing recipe. Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or capers for a similar umami flavor instead.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly (dressing separate), this salad can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator without losing too much quality.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to give this EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad a try! It’s perfect for dinner gatherings or as a satisfying meal prep option throughout the week. Enjoy creating this hearty dish, and don’t hesitate to share your results with family and friends! Happy cooking!
EXTRA Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the dressing by combining mayonnaise, Parmesan, anchovy fillets, milk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. Blitz until smooth.
- Dice ciabatta bread into small pieces and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Spread grated Parmesan on a tray, then spread seasoned croutons over it. Bake at 180C/350F for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Slice each breast horizontally into four pieces.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour and half the seasoning, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs and remaining seasoning. Dredge chicken pieces in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
- Toss chopped romaine lettuce with dressing, then fold in diced bacon and croutons. Serve topped with sliced crispy chicken.
