If you’re craving something light yet satisfying, packed with flavor, nutrients, and freshness, look no further than this Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Light Caesar Dressing. This high-protein, low-carb dish is a true superstar—perfect for clean eating without sacrificing taste. It’s a staple for summer lunches, meal preps, or elegant weeknight dinners. Let’s break down the flavors, textures, and how to recreate this vibrant plate right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Packed with lean protein & healthy fats
- Gluten-free & low-carb
- Rich in flavor from a creamy light Caesar dressing
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
- Customizable with fresh toppings
Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to make this grilled chicken salad with avocado and light Caesar dressing:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh Romaine lettuce or spring mix
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/4 cup croutons (optional)
- Olive oil, for grilling
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
For the Light Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Grill the Chicken
Start by brushing your chicken breasts lightly with olive oil and seasoning both sides with salt and black pepper. For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle a touch of garlic powder or paprika.
Grill Method:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Pro Tip: You can also marinate the chicken beforehand in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for extra flavor.
2. Prepare the Light Caesar Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This dressing is tangy, creamy, and far lighter than traditional Caesar, with all the flavor and none of the guilt.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl or platter, arrange your greens as the base layer. Top with:
- Sliced grilled chicken
- Fresh avocado
- Cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onions
- Optional shredded carrots for crunch and color
- Croutons (skip for low-carb or gluten-free)
Drizzle generously with the light Caesar dressing and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Variations and Add-Ins
You can personalize this Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Light Caesar Dressing by switching up or adding ingredients:
- Add hard-boiled eggs for a Cobb-style twist
- Top with bacon bits for smoky depth
- Include roasted chickpeas for plant-based crunch
- Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or salmon for a pescatarian option
- Use kale or arugula instead of Romaine for a peppery bite
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving Approximation)
- Calories: 450–500 kcal
- Protein: 35–40g
- Carbohydrates: 10–15g (mainly from vegetables and dressing)
- Fat: 25–30g (including healthy fats from avocado and dressing)
This salad fits well into a low-carb, keto-friendly, high-protein, or Mediterranean-style eating plan.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a full meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- A glass of chilled white wine (try Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- Iced green tea with lemon
- Fresh fruit for dessert like berries or melon slices
- A small bowl of soup on a cooler day
Storage Tips
- Meal prep? Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Dressing: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for 4–5 days. Shake well before using.
- Avocados: Add fresh right before serving to prevent browning.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Light Caesar Dressing is everything a modern salad should be—nourishing, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. With fresh produce, lean protein, and a light homemade Caesar that’s guilt-free, it’s a must-have in your weekly rotation.
Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting friends, this dish delivers gourmet vibes with minimal effort.
Save this recipe, share it with your healthy food-loving friends, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you try it!
