Description
A flavorful Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad featuring marinated and pan-seared chicken breasts served atop fresh romaine lettuce, tossed in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing with a spicy Creole twist. This quick and easy recipe combines bold Cajun flavors with classic Caesar salad elements for a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- 1/2 cup Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
Salad
- 1 head romaine lettuce (about 7 ounces if using pre-cut)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or to taste)
- 1 handful croutons (to taste)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Place them in a large zip-top bag with Tony Chachere’s 30-Minute Chicken Marinade, turning the bag several times to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the chicken marinates, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Creole seasoning, and minced garlic in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth, tasting and adjusting seasoning with more lemon juice, Creole seasoning, or garlic if desired.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients: Tear the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and add to a large salad bowl. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set aside along with the croutons.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover marinade. Sear the chicken pieces in the hot skillet for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and nicely browned. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate to rest.
- Assemble the Salad: Slowly drizzle the dressing over the lettuce, tossing gently to coat. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and arrange on top of the salad. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and add croutons. Serve immediately. Any leftover dressing can be refrigerated in a covered container for a few days.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken improves flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Adjust dressing acidity and seasoning to taste based on personal preference.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a good sear.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.
- Leftover dressing keeps well refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
