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Low Carb Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

This Low Carb Chicken Caesar Salad is a refreshing and healthy twist on the classic Caesar, perfect for those seeking a protein-packed, low carbohydrate meal. Featuring marinated grilled chicken breasts, a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing with anchovies, fresh romaine lettuce, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad delivers bold flavors with a nutritious edge. Ready in just 30 minutes (plus marinating time), it's ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 4 Chicken Breasts (skinless, boneless)

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 ounce Anchovy fillets (minced, optional)
  • 1/2 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Pepper (or to taste)

For the Salad

  • 4 Hard-boiled eggs (peeled and quartered)
  • 1 large Romaine or Cos lettuce (chopped into large pieces)
  • 2 medium Avocado (pitted and chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (shaved or grated)
  • 2 Tablespoons Chopped chives (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together the olive oil, dried oregano, and kosher salt in a small mixing bowl. Place the chicken breasts into a ziplock bag, pour the marinade over the chicken, and seal the bag tightly.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Gently massage the marinade around the chicken pieces to ensure even coating. Refrigerate and let them marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for enhanced flavor.
  3. Make the Dressing: Combine all the dressing ingredients—Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced anchovies (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—in a bowl. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 15 minutes to take the chill off, which helps in even cooking.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot surface and cook undisturbed for 6 to 8 minutes to develop a good sear without pressing or moving them.
  6. Flip and Cook Second Side: Turn the chicken over and continue cooking for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Prepare Salad Ingredients: While the chicken cooks, boil the eggs until hard-boiled, then peel and quarter them. Chop the romaine lettuce into large pieces and slice the avocado into chunks.
  8. Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet or grill and place on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then slice into strips and set aside.
  9. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, avocado pieces, quartered eggs, and sliced chicken breasts.
  10. Add Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle the prepared Greek yogurt dressing evenly over the salad. Sprinkle the shaved or grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with chopped chives.
  11. Final Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you have time.
  • Anchovies are optional in the dressing but add a classic Caesar flavor; omit for a milder taste.
  • To make hard-boiled eggs, place eggs in boiling water for 9-12 minutes, then cool in ice water before peeling.
  • You can substitute grilled chicken with leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
  • This salad is naturally low carb and can be made Keto-friendly by using full-fat Greek yogurt.
  • To make this recipe dairy-free, omit Parmesan and substitute yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.
  • Store leftovers separately (chicken, dressing, salad components) for best freshness.