If you’re looking to add a bold, spicy twist to a classic dish, this Jerk Chicken Caesar Salad is exactly what you need. Imagine the smoky, spicy flavors of jerk-marinated chicken combined with the creamy richness of Caesar dressing—it’s a match made in flavor heaven. This salad takes the traditional Caesar and brings it to life with the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean, making it perfect for a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a unique dish to impress your guests.
The star of this recipe is, of course, the jerk chicken. Marinated with a blend of spices, including allspice, thyme, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper, the chicken is grilled to perfection, bringing a smoky heat that’s both spicy and aromatic. Paired with crisp Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, crunchy croutons, and a zesty homemade Caesar dressing, each bite offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures that’s truly irresistible.
This Jerk Chicken Caesar Salad is easy to make yet tastes gourmet, and the homemade Caesar dressing takes it to the next level. You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and marinate the chicken overnight, making this a perfect meal for busy days. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite vegetables, swap out croutons for a gluten-free version, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this flavorful salad!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or overnight for best results)
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
For the Caesar Dressing:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
• 1 large head of Romaine lettuce, chopped
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
• 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or, for best results, overnight.
2. Prepare the Caesar Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped Romaine lettuce with half of the Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add the sliced jerk chicken on top, followed by shaved Parmesan and croutons.
5. Serve: Drizzle the remaining Caesar dressing over the salad, and garnish with lemon wedges for an extra squeeze of freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this salad less spicy?
Absolutely! If you’re sensitive to heat, use a milder jerk seasoning or reduce the amount used. You can also add extra Caesar dressing to help balance the spice.
What’s the best way to make jerk seasoning at home?
A simple jerk seasoning blend includes allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spices to taste or add Scotch bonnet for more heat.
Can I prepare the Caesar dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a quick stir before using.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F internally. It won’t have the smoky flavor from the grill, but it’ll still be delicious.
How do I make this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free croutons or skip the croutons altogether. The salad and dressing are naturally gluten-free if prepared as instructed.
This Jerk Chicken Caesar Salad is a delicious fusion of classic and Caribbean flavors, bringing a spicy, smoky twist to a well-loved dish. The creamy Caesar dressing cools down the heat of the jerk seasoning, while the crisp lettuce, Parmesan, and croutons add layers of texture. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is easy to make and guaranteed to impress with its bold, vibrant taste. Enjoy your taste of the Caribbean!
