Traybake Chicken Caesar Salad
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cups sourdough bread, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 3 heads Romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly shaved
- 1/2 cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
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Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Place the chicken thighs on one side of the tray and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- 3
Scatter the torn sourdough pieces across the empty side of the baking sheet, tossing them in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- 4
Roast in the oven for 15 minutes, then turn the chicken thighs and toss the croutons to ensure even browning.
- 5
Nestle the halved Romaine lettuce heads cut-side down onto the tray and return to the oven for 8–10 minutes, until the lettuce is lightly charred and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- 6
Slice the chicken, chop the charred lettuce into large pieces, and arrange everything on a platter; top with creamy Caesar dressing, shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, and lemon wedges.
Notes
Roasting the bread croutons directly alongside the chicken allows them to absorb rendered juices while developing a deep, crunchy texture. For extra freshness, pair the warm charred Romaine hearts with a few fresh, crisp raw Romaine leaves before dressing.
The Story Behind Caesar Salad
The Caesar salad was created in 1924 by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico. Legend has it that a busy Fourth of July rush depleted his restaurant's kitchen supplies, prompting Cardini to throw together the remaining ingredients with dramatic tableside presentation. The dish quickly gained international renown, beloved for its harmonious contrast of crisp lettuce, garlic, rich emulsion, and sharp Parmesan cheese.
Discover Traybake Chicken Caesar Salad
Jamie Oliver
Jamie Oliver is well known for pioneering accessible sheet-pan meals that maximize flavor through smart ingredient placement and pan juices. He frequently reimagines classic salads by hot-roasting proteins and aromatics together for a hearty, modern twist.