Yogurt Caesar Grilled Chicken Salad

The first time I made this yogurt Caesar dressing, my husband actually stopped mid-bite and asked what was different about it. He couldn't believe something so creamy and tangy didn't have a drop of mayonnaise. Now it's our go-to summer dinner when we want something satisfying but not heavy.

Last summer, we had friends over for what was supposed to be a casual dinner on the patio. Everyone hovered around the grill while the chicken cooked, drawn in by the smell of garlic and oregano hitting the heat. They've requested this salad at every gathering since.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Go for boneless skinless breasts about the same thickness so they cook evenly. Pound any thick parts gently with a meat mallet if needed.
• Greek yogurt: Use 2% or whole milk yogurt for the creamiest dressing. Nonfat works but the texture won't be quite as luxurious.
• Freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. Buy a wedge and grate it yourself.
• Romaine lettuce: Look for heads with tight, crisp leaves and no browning or wilting at the edges. Two large heads should yield plenty for four servings.

Instructions

Fire up the grill:

Get your grill or grill pan heated to medium-high. You want it hot enough to create those beautiful sear marks but not so aggressive that the chicken burns before cooking through.

Season the chicken:

Brush both sides of each breast with olive oil, then sprinkle with the garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pat the spices gently so they adhere well to the meat.

Grill to perfection:

Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F internally. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

Whisk the dressing:

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk until completely smooth.

Assemble your masterpiece:

Toss the chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and croutons in a large bowl with the dressing. Arrange on plates, top with chicken strips and shaved Parmesan.

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My daughter used to turn her nose up at salad until I started making this version. Now she requests it for her birthday dinner every year, and she actually eats all the romaine first because she says the crispy leaves are the best part.

Making Ahead

The yogurt Caesar dressing keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Grill the chicken and store it sliced in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, just assemble with fresh lettuce and croutons.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I swap the croutons for toasted pine nuts when we want something lighter. If you're missing Worcestershire sauce, a tiny pinch of anchovy paste plus some balsamic vinegar gets you remarkably close to the same flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creamy dressing beautifully. For a complete dinner, serve with some crusty garlic bread for soaking up any extra dressing left on the plate.

• Grill extra chicken for tomorrow's lunch
• Double the dressing and use it as a vegetable dip
• Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess

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This salad has become our Tuesday night ritual. Simple enough for a weeknight, special enough to feel like a treat.

Recipe FAQs

→ Is the yogurt Caesar dressing lighter than traditional Caesar dressing?

Yes, the Greek yogurt base significantly reduces calories while maintaining creaminess. Traditional Caesar relies heavily on raw egg yolks and oil, creating a much heavier dressing. The yogurt version offers similar tanginess and texture with noticeably less fat.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling fresh?

Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and reduces prep time to under 15 minutes. Simply skip the grilling step and add the warmed chicken strips before serving.

→ What makes this salad high in protein?

Each serving delivers 36 grams of protein primarily from the grilled chicken breasts. The Greek yogurt dressing and Parmesan cheese contribute additional protein, making this a satisfying meal that supports muscle recovery and keeps you full longer.

→ How long does the yogurt dressing stay fresh?

The dressing keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The ingredients may separate slightly—simply whisk before using. For best results, store separately from the salad to prevent wilting the romaine.

→ What can I substitute for croutons to make this gluten-free?

Try toasted nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch. Roasted chickpeas or gluten-free bread cubes also work beautifully. These alternatives maintain texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.

→ Can I meal prep this salad for lunch throughout the week?

Yes, but store components separately. Keep the grilled chicken, dressing, and salad fixings in individual containers. Assemble just before eating to prevent sogginess. The dressing and chicken stay fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated properly.