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Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad with Crispy Onions Recipe


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4 from 76 reviews

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Description

This Blackened Chicken Caesar Salad with Crispy Onions is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a quick lunch or family dinner. Featuring smoky, blackened grilled chicken atop crisp romaine lettuce with fresh Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy fried onions, all drizzled with creamy Caesar dressing, this salad balances indulgence with nutritious ingredients and is easily customizable to suit your taste.


Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan, shaved
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
  • Caesar dressing, desired amount

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 tsp blackening spice
  • 1/2 tsp pepper


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot before cooking the chicken for ideal searing and smoky flavor.
  2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with the blackening spice to coat both sides thoroughly.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and juices run clear.
  4. Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken is grilling, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large salad bowl.
  5. Rest and Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for at least 5 minutes to retain juices. Then slice thinly against the grain.
  6. Assemble the Salad: Lay the sliced chicken over the prepared lettuce mixture. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top for added texture and flavor.
  7. Dress and Season: Drizzle the desired amount of Caesar dressing evenly over the salad and finish by seasoning with black pepper to taste. Toss gently or serve as is.

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill or add smoked paprika to the blackening spice mix.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier meat alternative.
  • Use dairy-free Parmesan and a vegan Caesar dressing to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
  • Add croutons or avocado slices for extra texture and richness.
  • To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium Caesar dressing and control added salt in seasoning.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American