Why You’ll Love Healthy Chicken Caesar Salad with Fries Recipe
If you love a classic chicken Caesar salad but want something more filling, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds. It combines crisp, juicy chicken and golden fries with a creamy, tangy dressing—without the heaviness of traditional fried versions.
It’s high in protein, making it ideal for staying full longer or supporting an active lifestyle. The air-fried or baked components keep things lighter while still giving you that irresistible crunch. It’s also easy to customize based on your preferences, whether you want extra veggies, a spicy kick, or a lower-carb option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crispy chicken:
chicken breast, pounded thin
Greek yogurt
Dijon mustard
minced garlic or garlic powder
paprika
mixed herbs
salt
black pepper
panko breadcrumbs
grated parmesan cheese
For the fries:
white potatoes, cut into fries
olive oil
paprika
salt
black pepper
optional peri-peri seasoning
For the Caesar dressing:
light mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
minced garlic or garlic powder
Dijon mustard
anchovy paste or finely blended anchovies (optional)
apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
fresh lemon juice
grated parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
For the salad base:
romaine or cos lettuce, chopped
Optional toppings:
extra parmesan cheese
hot honey (honey mixed with hot sauce and chili flakes)
Directions
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Prepare the chicken by combining Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic, paprika, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breast evenly and let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes.
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Mix panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan and a pinch of seasoning. Press the marinated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
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Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Toss the cut potatoes with olive oil and seasonings. Spread them out in a single layer in the air fryer or on a baking tray. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway, or bake for 25–30 minutes until crispy and golden.
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In a bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
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Toss chopped lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated.
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Slice the cooked chicken and assemble the salad. Top the dressed lettuce with crispy chicken and fries. Finish with extra parmesan or a drizzle of hot honey if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 1 generous serving (can easily be doubled or tripled)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35–40 minutes
Variations
For a lower-carb version, replace the fries with roasted zucchini or cauliflower.
Swap white potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and added fiber.
Use grilled chicken instead of breaded chicken for an even lighter option.
Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onions for extra freshness and color.
Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Storage/Reheating
Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate from the lettuce to prevent sogginess.
Reheat the chicken and fries in an air fryer or oven at 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soft. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken, fries, and dressing in advance and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I bake everything instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely. Both the chicken and fries can be baked in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) until crispy and fully cooked.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Is anchovy necessary in Caesar dressing?
No. Anchovy adds classic flavor, but you can omit it or substitute with a small splash of soy sauce or capers for a similar savory note.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing gives you better control over flavor and ingredients.
What type of lettuce works best?
Romaine or cos lettuce is ideal because it stays crisp and holds the dressing well.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and may be even juicier. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and skip the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I make this recipe for meal prep?
Yes. Keep the salad, dressing, chicken, and fries stored separately and assemble when ready to eat.
How can I increase the protein even more?
Add extra chicken, mix protein powder into the yogurt marinade, or serve with a side of boiled eggs for an additional boost.
Conclusion
Healthy Chicken Caesar Salad with Fries proves that balanced eating doesn’t have to be boring. With crispy, flavorful chicken, golden fries, and a creamy homemade dressing, this dish satisfies cravings while staying nutritious and protein-packed. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a lighter take on a classic favorite.
