Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad is a lighter twist on the classic Caesar salad, packed with lean grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp romaine, and a tangy, healthier Caesar dressing. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s satisfying without being heavy, and delivers all the flavor you crave with fewer calories.

ingredients

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

romaine lettucegrilled chicken breastavocadocherry tomatoesparmesan cheesewhole grain croutonslight Caesar dressinglemon juiceolive oilgarlicDijon mustardWorcestershire saucesalt and black pepperplain Greek yogurt (used in dressing)

directions

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

Slice the grilled chicken breast into strips and add to the bowl.

Halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the avocado, then toss them in with the lettuce and chicken.

Sprinkle with shaved or grated parmesan and add whole grain croutons.

To make the light Caesar dressing, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine evenly.

Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of parmesan or fresh ground pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesGrilling time (if needed): 10–12 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Add a soft or hard-boiled egg for extra protein.

Swap grilled shrimp or turkey for the chicken.

Use kale or spinach in place of romaine for a different green base.

Add sliced red onions or cucumbers for added crunch.

Use dairy-free yogurt and cheese for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.Dressing should be kept refrigerated and used within 3–4 days.For best freshness, avoid storing the salad fully dressed.

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but choose a light or Greek yogurt-based Caesar to keep it skinny.

Is this salad low-carb?

Yes, especially if you omit or limit the croutons.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep all ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving to maintain texture.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

Low-fat sour cream or blended cottage cheese are good substitutes.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free croutons and check that your dressing ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a convenient and tasty option.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, store ingredients separately and add avocado and dressing when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and health-conscious take on a beloved classic. With tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a light yet zesty dressing, it’s a go-to meal for busy days or when you want something nutritious and satisfying without extra calories.

Print
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Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad

Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A light and healthy twist on the classic Caesar salad, featuring grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and a lighter Caesar dressing.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup whole grain croutons
  • 1/3 cup light Caesar dressing
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat.
  2. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
  4. In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and lemon juice.
  5. Add grilled chicken slices, avocado, Parmesan cheese, and croutons on top.
  6. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken for 30 minutes in lemon juice and garlic before grilling.
  • Use a low-fat Caesar dressing to keep the salad lighter.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber for extra crunch and color.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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