Mazzio's - Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

Prepare chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound lightly to even thickness (about 1/2 inch) if needed.

In a small bowl, combine 2 tbs olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Brush or rub mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle (about 1 tsp) of olive oil if pan is dry. When hot, add the chicken breasts and cook 5-6 minutes per side, until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached and outside is golden-brown. (If using a grill, cook similarly.)

Remove chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly across the grain into strips for salad.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Toss bread cubes with 2 tbs melted butter or olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl until evenly coated.

Spread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake 10-12 minutes, stirring once, until crisp and golden. Cool slightly.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbs Greek yogurt (if using), 2 tbs fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp anchovy paste, and 1 minced garlic clove until smooth.

Slowly whisk in 2 tbs olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Season with 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper and 1/4 tsp salt. Taste and adjust acidity with more lemon juice or seasoning to taste.

Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce, then chop or tear into bite-sized pieces. Place 8 cups of lettuce into a large bowl.

Add optional 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved.

Add 3/4 of the shredded Parmesan (reserve some for garnish), and most of the croutons (reserve a handful for topping).

Drizzle 3/4 of the Caesar dressing over the salad (start with about 3-4 tbs, then add more to taste) and toss gently until evenly coated.

Top the salad with the sliced warm chicken. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan and reserved croutons over the top. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.