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Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

Indulge in the delectable delight of our Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad – a quick and effortless recipe that will leave your taste buds begging for more. With its simplicity and fantastic taste, it’s the perfect solution for busy days or when you crave a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

To start, we’ll utilize the foolproof Basic Chicken Breasts method in the Instant Pot to prepare the chicken. This guarantees perfectly moist and tender chicken that pairs wonderfully with the vibrant flavors of the Caesar Salad.

Versatility is key with this recipe, as you can easily use any leftover chicken breast to create a single serving of the Caesar Chicken Salad, or get creative with an Instant Pot Caesar Chicken Wrap.

While the chicken is cooking to perfection, the homemade dressing can be prepared, or if you prefer, you can whip up the dressing fresh as needed. Our Caesar dressing recipe is a game-changer, boasting a delicious blend of flavors without the use of anchovy paste or raw eggs. It’s creamy, tangy, and brings a whole new level of depth to the classic Caesar Salad.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the star of the show – the crunchy homemade garlic croutons! These flavorful morsels surpass any store-bought variety, offering a crispy texture that you’ll find impossible to resist. In fact, you might be tempted to sneak a few straight from the oven.

With this Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad, you’re not just getting a meal; you’re getting an experience. The combination of moist, seasoned chicken, crisp croutons, and the creamy homemade Caesar dressing is a match made in culinary heaven. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it as a scrumptious sidekick to your favorite soups.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser that will impress everyone at the table. Say goodbye to mundane salads and embrace the extraordinary flavors of our Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad – a tantalizing dish that will keep you coming back for more.

Caesar Salad Fun Fact:

Did you know that the beloved Caesar Salad isn’t actually named after the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar? The origins of this iconic salad can be traced back to an Italian immigrant named Caesar Cardini, who created it in an unexpected place – Mexico. It was in the year 1924 when Cardini, a restaurateur in Tijuana, crafted this delectable dish to cater to American tourists seeking refuge from the constraints of Prohibition.

Legend has it that during a lively Fourth of July weekend, Cardini found himself in a culinary predicament with limited ingredients at hand. Undeterred, he skillfully combined various elements, giving rise to what we now know as the classic Caesar Salad. He shared his innovative creation with friends, who were instantly captivated by its unique and satisfying flavors.

Adding another twist to the tale, in 1926, Caesar’s brother, Alex Cardini, paid a visit and introduced a key ingredient to the original recipe – anchovies. This enhanced version was initially known as the “Aviator’s Salad,” paying tribute to those brave pioneers of the skies. However, the salad’s popularity soared, and it eventually became widely recognized as “Caesar’s Salad.”

The salad’s fame spread far beyond the Mexican borders and soon reached the shores of Europe. By 1953, the International Society of Epicure in Paris bestowed the Caesar Salad with an esteemed title, declaring it “the greatest recipe to originate from the Americas in 50 years.” The salad’s simplicity, yet exquisite blend of flavors, had won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide.

Now, fast forward to the present day, where we bring you a delightful twist on the classic Caesar Salad – the Easy Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad. This modern adaptation combines the timeless flavors of the original with the convenience of the Instant Pot, making it a breeze to prepare. The ingredients are straightforward, allowing you to savor the essence of the Caesar Salad with every bite.

If you’re seeking more culinary inspiration, our Pinterest Instant Pot Board is a treasure trove of dinner ideas, including this delectable pressure cooker Chicken Caesar Salad. So, indulge in the history and flavors of the legendary Caesar Salad while enjoying the ease of modern cooking methods, all in one delightful dish. Bon appétit!

instant pot chicken caesar salad on white plate

Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, prepared using the basic Instant Pot chicken breast method (see directions below), cut into strips
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
  • ¼ tsp lemon zest
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup croutons, optional*
  • 1 romaine heart, washed

 

instant pot chicken caesar salad on plate with chicken cubed

 

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad:
Directions

Instant Pot Chicken Breasts Directions:

  1. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
  2. Add all the ingredients to the Instant Pot.
  3. Lock the lid and set the time.
  4. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock it into place.
  5. Turn the valve to the “sealing” position.
  6. Press Poultry and adjust the time to 5 minutes.
  7. When the timer beeps, Quick Release, keeping hands and face away from the steam, and remove the chicken.

Salad Preparation:

  1. Tear the crisp romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add croutons and ½ of the Parmesan. Toss gently.

Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing:

  1. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese to a small bowl.
  2. Whisk in the mayonnaise gradually until smooth. Season with salt.
  3. An immersion blender can be used to make this dressing even easier!

Assembly:

  1. Place the romaine lettuce in a serving bowl topped with chicken strips.
  2. Drizzle the homemade Caesar dressing over the salad.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  4. Optional: Garnish with additional croutons for extra crunch.

Tips:

  • *For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free croutons or omit them altogether.
  • Feel free to customize the salad with cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or avocado for added freshness and flavor.

Enjoy this Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad as a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. The tender chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy homemade dressing come together harmoniously, creating a delightful culinary experience in the comfort of your home. Bon appétit!

Serve.

Place Romaine in a bowl topped with chicken strips, and drizzle with dressing.

instant pot chicken caesar salad drizzled with dressing

Recipe Tip: Thickening the Dressing and Browning Chicken

If you find the dressing to be on the thinner side, don’t worry! You can easily thicken it up by incorporating more mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese. Simply add small amounts of both until the desired consistency is achieved. This will enhance the creaminess and depth of flavor, giving your salad that perfect finishing touch.

To elevate the taste of the Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad even further, consider browning the chicken before cooking it in the Instant Pot. You can achieve a delightful char and added smokiness by grilling the chicken on a barbecue or searing it in a hot pan. This step adds another layer of complexity to the dish, making it even more mouthwatering.

Storage:

After preparing the dressing, transfer any leftover amount to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The homemade Caesar dressing can be safely refrigerated for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy this delectable dressing on multiple occasions without any fuss.

To Make the Croutons:

Ingredients:

  • Baguette
  • 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic
  • 2 Tablespoons Parmesan

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
  2. Cut a baguette in half lengthwise, then slice it into 1/4″ thick pieces, and place the slices on a baking sheet.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil with minced garlic. You can use a pastry brush to brush the mixture onto the baguette slices or toss the bread in the oil.
  4. Sprinkle the baguette slices with Parmesan cheese, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Spread the coated baguette slices evenly on the baking sheet.
  6. Bake the croutons in the preheated oven until they reach the desired level of crispiness, which typically takes about 10 minutes.

Crouton Tips:

You can use any type of bread to make croutons, but a baguette works especially well, providing a delightful crunch and flavor to your Caesar Salad.

Instant Pot Caesar Chicken Wraps:

Why not transform this recipe into Instant Pot Caesar Chicken Wraps for a delicious and convenient meal option? After preparing the salad as directed above, simply add slices of the Instant Pot chicken to your favorite flavored wrap. Top it with cheese and drizzle the homemade Caesar dressing over it. Roll it up, and you’ve got a mouthwatering wrap that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick and tasty meal.

three instant pot caesar chicken salad wraps stacked on plate

 

Instant Pot Caesar Chicken Wraps are incredibly easy! 

They are delicious snacks. The perfect solution to leftovers. And trust me; you’re mouth and belly won’t complain!

Chicken Salad Caesar Wraps:

For a creative twist on the classic Chicken Caesar Salad, try making Chicken Salad Caesar Wraps. Instead of cutting the chicken into strips, shred it and mix it with enough Creamy Caesar Salad dressing to achieve the desired texture. Add long Romaine lettuce leaves to your wrap and spoon the Caesar chicken salad onto them. Fold the bottom of the tortilla to create a pocket and then roll it crossways. This variation adds a delightful twist to the traditional salad, making it a perfect option for gatherings and parties. You might also try this chicken salad recipe.

two instant pot caesar chicken wraps on cutting boardChicken Wrap Add-Ins:

Elevate your Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Wrap experience by adding any combination of the following ingredients:

  • Crispy bacon for a savory crunch
  • Creamy avocado for a smooth and rich flavor
  • Extra cheese for added indulgence
  • Sliced onions for a zesty kick
  • Fresh green onions for a burst of freshness
  • Juicy diced tomatoes for a burst of color and tanginess

Feel free to get creative and customize your wraps to suit your taste preferences and cravings. The possibilities are endless, making each wrap unique and satisfying.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations and make the most out of this versatile Caesar Salad recipe. With Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad and its various spin-offs, you have a range of delightful options that will please your palate and leave you wanting more. Bon appétit!

When you’re finished, why not give your Instant Pot a deep clean with this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? While this recipe is designed for fresh chicken breasts, you can adapt it to use frozen chicken breasts as well. Adjust the cooking time in the Instant Pot accordingly, adding a few extra minutes to ensure the frozen chicken cooks thoroughly.

2. Can I substitute the romaine lettuce with other greens? Yes, you can use other leafy greens such as kale, spinach, or mixed salad greens in place of romaine lettuce. However, keep in mind that the classic Caesar Salad flavor is traditionally associated with romaine lettuce.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. The dressing and other ingredients will remain the same.

4. Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Caesar Salad dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This way, you can easily whip up the salad whenever you desire.

5. Are there any gluten-free options for the croutons? For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or gluten-free croutons, or simply omit the croutons altogether. The salad will still be delicious without them.

6. Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing instead? While homemade dressing provides the best flavors, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing if you’re short on time or prefer a convenient option. However, making the dressing from scratch is easy and allows you to customize the taste to your liking.

7. How can I make the Caesar dressing vegan? To make a vegan Caesar dressing, you can replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Additionally, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard are vegan-friendly.

8. Can I meal prep this salad for the week? Yes, this salad can be easily meal prepped for the week. Prepare the chicken, dressing, and croutons in advance, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad when you’re ready to enjoy it, ensuring maximum freshness.

9. How long does the Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad last in the refrigerator? When properly stored in an airtight container, the assembled salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.

10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, if you have leftover pre-cooked chicken, you can use it in this salad. Simply warm the chicken slightly before adding it to the salad for the best taste and texture.

11. Can I make the salad without the Instant Pot? Absolutely! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can cook the chicken using your preferred method, such as grilling, baking, or pan-searing. The rest of the salad preparation remains the same.

12. How can I adjust the recipe to serve a larger crowd? To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities as needed. Keep in mind that the cooking time for the chicken in the Instant Pot may need to be adjusted slightly for larger quantities.

13. Can I make the dressing without an immersion blender? Yes, if you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular whisk to mix the dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.

14. Can I freeze the dressing for future use? It’s not recommended to freeze the Caesar dressing, as mayonnaise-based dressings can separate and lose their texture when frozen and thawed. It’s best to enjoy the dressing fresh or refrigerate it for up to one week.

15. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Certainly! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option for this salad. Simply shred the chicken and follow the salad assembly directions as usual.

Enjoy making and savoring this Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad, and feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs!

Alternative Names for this Recipe:

  1. Creamy Caesar Chicken Salad
  2. Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Wraps
  3. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
  4. Homemade Caesar Chicken Salad
  5. Caesar Chicken Lettuce Wraps
  6. Easy Instant Pot Caesar Salad
  7. Italian-Inspired Chicken Caesar Salad
  8. Zesty Chicken Caesar Wraps
  9. Mexican Caesar Chicken Salad
  10. Romaine and Chicken Caesar Delight
  11. Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad
  12. Caesar Chicken Roll-Ups
  13. Instant Pot Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
  14. Creamy Caesar Chicken Wrap
  15. Tijuana Caesar Chicken Salad
 
close up of chicken caesar salad in bowl

Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

The Instant Pot Chicken Caesar Salad recipe takes the Classic Caesar Salad with crisp homemade croutons and an easy DIY light caesar dressing and adds moist, deliciously seasoned chicken to make a complete meal, ready to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breasts prepared using the basic Instant Pot chicken breast method, cut into strips
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
  • ¼ tsp lemon zest
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup croutons, optional*
  • 1 romaine heart, washed

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
    Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
    Lock the Lid and Set the Time.
    Place the lid on the Instant Pot and lock into place.
    Turn the valve to the “sealing” position.
    Press Poultry and adjust the time to 5-minutes.
    Quick Release.
     When timer beeps, Quick Release; keeping hands and face away from the steam and remove chicken.
  2. Prepare Salad:
    Tear romaine into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl. Add croutons and ½ of the Parmesan. Toss gently.
  3. Make the Dressing:
    Add the garlic, lemon zest, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup of the cheese to a small bowl.
    Whisk in the mayonnaise. Gradually, whisk until smooth.  Season with salt.
  4. Serve.
    Place Romaine in a bowl top with chicken strips, drizzle with dressing.

Notes

To Make the Croutons:

Ingredients:

Baguette

3 Tablespoons Olive Oil

1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic

2 Tablespoons Parmesan

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375-degrees.

Cut a baguette in half lengthwise and slice into 1/4″ thick pieces and place on a baking sheet.

In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil with minced garlic. You can either use a pastry brush to brush onto the baguette or toss the bread in the oil. Sprinkle all with Parmesan Cheese.

Spread evenly on the baking sheet and bake to desired crispness, about 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 470Total Fat: 38gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 28gCholesterol: 79mgSodium: 933mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 26g

The Nutritional Information may not be accurate.

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