Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad offers a lighter twist on the classic Caesar by combining lean grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s a refreshing, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, delivering all the flavor without the heaviness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastsromaine lettucesliced avocadoparmesan cheeselight Caesar dressinglemon juicewhole-grain croutonsolive oilgarlic powdersaltpepper

directions

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.

Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.

Add the sliced avocado, grilled chicken, parmesan cheese, and whole-grain croutons.

Drizzle with light Caesar dressing and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Use kale instead of romaine for extra nutrients.

Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.

Make it dairy-free by omitting the parmesan or using a vegan alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.For best results, keep dressing separate and add just before serving to avoid sogginess.Grilled chicken can be stored separately for up to 3 days and reheated gently if needed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Yes, but opt for a light or yogurt-based version to keep it healthier.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

It can be made keto-friendly by skipping the croutons.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

What’s the best way to grill the chicken?

Use medium heat and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a convenient and delicious shortcut.

What type of avocado works best?

A ripe but firm avocado is ideal for slicing without getting mushy.

How can I make the dressing from scratch?

Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, anchovy paste, and parmesan for a quick light Caesar dressing.

What are good crouton alternatives?

Try roasted chickpeas or seeds for a gluten-free, crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad is a delicious, lighter alternative to traditional Caesar salads, offering fresh flavors, lean protein, and creamy avocado goodness. Quick to prepare and full of satisfying textures, it’s a perfect healthy meal for any day of the week.