Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes

🍽 Servings: 4

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

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For the Salad:

• 2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup croutons (optional)

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For the Homemade Caesar Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin if needed)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts into strips.

2. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

1. Place flour in one bowl.

2. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with milk.

3. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge chicken in flour.

2. Dip into egg mixture.

3. Coat thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture.

4. Press gently so crumbs stick well.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 75°C).

3. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

4. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice if needed.

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Step 5: Make the Dressing

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

2. Stir in Parmesan cheese.

3. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Thin with water if dressing is too thick.

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Step 6: Assemble the Salad

1. Add chopped romaine to a large bowl.

2. Toss with Caesar dressing until evenly coated.

3. Add croutons.

4. Top with crispy chicken strips.

5. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan.

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Tips for Extra Flavor

• Add anchovy paste (½ teaspoon) to dressing for authentic Caesar flavor.

• Grill the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version.

• Use freshly shaved Parmesan for best taste.

• Chill the salad bowl before serving for restaurant-style presentation.