Caesar Citizen Sandwich Recipe

Prep Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat and, if thighs are large, halve horizontally to an even thickness to cook evenly.

Season both sides of the chicken thighs with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub with 1 tbs olive oil to help the seasonings adhere.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove to a plate and let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for the sandwiches.

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise (1 tbs), Greek yogurt (2 tbs), fresh lemon juice (2 tbs), anchovy paste (1 tsp), Dijon mustard (1 tsp), grated Parmesan (3 tbs), Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp), minced garlic (1 clove), and freshly ground black pepper (1 tsp).

Whisk until smooth and slightly thick. Taste and adjust: add up to 1/2 tsp extra anchovy paste or a pinch of salt if needed, more lemon if you want brighter acidity. If too thick, thin with 1–2 tsp water or olive oil to spreadable consistency.

Split the rolls and butter the cut sides lightly with softened butter (about 1/2 tbs per roll). Toast the rolls cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, broil for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Spread a generous layer (about 1 tbs) of the prepared Caesar dressing on both cut sides of each toasted roll.

On the bottom half of each roll arrange a bed of Romaine lettuce (about 1/2 cup per sandwich), then place 3–4 slices of the sliced chicken thighs on top.

Add 2–3 thin tomato slices per sandwich, then sprinkle the optional capers (1/4 tsp per sandwich) and the shaved Parmesan (about 1/2 tbs per sandwich). If you want extra crunch, sprinkle about 1/4 tbs toasted breadcrumbs or panko on each sandwich.

Top with the roll halves, press lightly to set, and cut each sandwich in half. Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the rolls are crisp.

For a stronger anchovy note, mix the additional 1/2 tsp anchovy paste into extra dressing and drizzle lightly over the assembled sandwich. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired.