This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a healthy, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for anyone following a keto or paleo lifestyle. Juicy grilled chicken meets crisp romaine, savory Parmesan, and a creamy keto-friendly Caesar dressing for a classic combo that never gets old. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or energizing lunches on-the-go. With bold flavor in every bite and nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a satisfying option for health-conscious eaters who don’t want to sacrifice taste.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup Caesar dressing (keto-friendly)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder and black pepper.
- Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is cooking, rinse and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing and lemon juice over the romaine and toss well to evenly coat all the leaves.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dressed lettuce and gently toss again to combine.
- Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
- Divide the salad onto two plates or bowls and top each with half of the grilled chicken. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein (g): 42
Fat (g): 29
Carbohydrates (g): 6
Fiber (g): 2
Sugar (g): 2
Sodium (mg): 720
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad by separating the components. Keep the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chopped romaine lettuce should be stored separately in a sealed container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture; it will stay fresh for 2–3 days. Caesar dressing should also be stored in its own container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This dish does not freeze well, as the lettuce will lose its texture and quality once thawed.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the grilled chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave at 50% power for 1–2 minutes to avoid drying out the meat. Do not heat the lettuce or dressing; instead, reassemble the salad cold, adding the reheated chicken on top just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Modifications and Additions
To increase the fiber and micronutrient content while keeping the recipe paleo-friendly, add ingredients like chopped kale or arugula with the romaine for a leafy green blend rich in vitamins A and C. You can also include sliced avocado for healthy fats and extra potassium or throw in a few cherry tomatoes for added antioxidants without straying from the paleo approach. To boost protein, consider adding a boiled egg or some grilled shrimp alongside the chicken. All of these optional ingredients complement the Caesar flavors and enhance the dish’s nutritional profile.
