Name: Low Carb Caesar Salad with Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 grilled or cooked chicken breasts, sliced; 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/3 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese; Cracked black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced avocado, 2 boiled eggs; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced or grated; 1 tsp anchovy paste (or 1 finely minced anchovy); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1–2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)

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This Low Carb Caesar Salad with Chicken is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something light, fresh, and protein-packed without the extra carbs. It has all the bold, savory flavors I love in a classic Caesar—creamy dressing, crisp romaine, juicy chicken, and salty Parmesan—without the croutons or carb-heavy add-ins. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s low in carbs but high in flavor. It’s quick to throw together, especially if I already have grilled or rotisserie chicken on hand. The homemade Caesar dressing is rich and garlicky with just the right tang, and the crisp romaine keeps it refreshing. It keeps me full without weighing me down, and I can easily prep it ahead for busy days. Low Carb Caesar Salad with Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad:

Grilled or cooked chicken breast (sliced)
Romaine lettuce (chopped)
Shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
Cracked black pepper (for garnish)
Optional: cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, or boiled eggs (for extra variety)

For the low carb Caesar dressing:

Mayonnaise
Fresh garlic (minced or grated)
Anchovy paste (or finely minced anchovies)
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Water (to thin, if needed)

Directions

I start by making the dressing: I whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth. I add a little water to thin it to my desired consistency.
In a large bowl, I toss the chopped romaine with the dressing until well coated.
I top the salad with sliced grilled chicken, shaved Parmesan, and extra cracked pepper.
I serve it immediately, optionally with avocado slices or halved cherry tomatoes for added texture and color.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people as a main, or 4 as a side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use rotisserie chicken to save time, or substitute grilled shrimp or salmon for variety. If I want more crunch without carbs, I add roasted sunflower seeds or crispy parmesan chips. For extra richness, I add a soft-boiled egg or a few slices of avocado. I’ve even made it a wrap using low-carb tortillas.

Storage/reheating

The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I keep the salad components separate and assemble just before eating to keep the lettuce crisp. Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheated gently, though I usually enjoy it cold over the salad. Low Carb Caesar Salad with Chicken

FAQs

Is Caesar dressing low carb?

Yes, especially when I make it from scratch. Traditional Caesar dressing is naturally low in carbs when made without sugar or unnecessary additives.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but I check the label for hidden sugars and carbs. I prefer making my own so I can control the flavor and ingredients.

What’s a good substitute for anchovies?

If I don’t have anchovy paste, I use Worcestershire sauce—it adds a similar umami flavor. Just a dash goes a long way.

Can I make this salad ahead?

I prep all the ingredients and store them separately, then assemble just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.

What can I use instead of croutons?

I use Parmesan crisps, roasted nuts, or low-carb crackers broken into pieces. They give that satisfying crunch without the carbs.

Conclusion

This Low Carb Caesar Salad with Chicken is a flavorful, filling option when I want to eat clean without sacrificing taste. It’s crisp, creamy, and perfectly balanced—everything I love about a Caesar salad with none of the carbs I’m trying to avoid. Whether I make it for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s always a fresh and satisfying choice.