Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken Recipe
If you love classic Caesar flavors but crave something a little heartier and crunchier, Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken is about to become your new obsession! This recipe brings together juicy, golden-fried chicken cutlets and a fresh, vibrant cabbage slaw tossed in creamy Caesar dressing. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and crisp textures, making this dish a total crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or even your next potluck. It’s easy to prepare, absolutely irresistible, and delivers all the comfort of Caesar salad—with the bonus of extra crunch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken is that it leans on simple ingredients, each lending its own special magic to the mix. From the tender marinated chicken to the fresh, colorful veggies and zesty Caesar dressing, these components combine for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
- Chicken breasts: Thin cutlets cook quickly and stay juicy, soaking up all the flavor from the marinade.
- Buttermilk: Marinating in buttermilk ensures tender chicken with a subtle tang.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These give the chicken its ultra-crispy, golden coating.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor inside the crust and as a finishing touch.
- Garlic powder: Brings a gentle, savory depth to the breading.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and color to the crispy coating.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Olive oil: Pan-frying with olive oil gives the chicken a beautiful crust and flavor.
- Green cabbage: Shredded green cabbage forms the crunchy, refreshing base of the slaw.
- Red cabbage: Adds color, crunch, and a slightly peppery bite.
- Carrots: For a touch of sweetness and even more vibrant color.
- Caesar dressing: Store-bought or homemade, it ties the slaw together with creamy, savory goodness.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the salad and balances the richness of the dressing.
- Extra Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top for extra umami and flair.
- Croutons (optional): For those who love a little extra crunch, toss some on before serving!
How to Make Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken cutlets in a shallow bowl and covering them with buttermilk. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a gentle tang that pairs perfectly with the Caesar flavors. Let the chicken soak for at least 15 minutes—if you have time, letting it rest overnight in the fridge makes it even better!
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating
While the chicken marinates, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl. This mixture is the secret to that irresistible, ultra-crunchy exterior. Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove each chicken cutlet from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks well—this is what gives your Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken its signature crunch!
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken cutlets and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The aroma is incredible! Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for a couple of minutes, which helps keep it juicy when you slice it.
Step 5: Toss the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. Pour over the Caesar dressing and fresh lemon juice, then toss everything together until well coated. The dressing clings to every strand, and the lemon gives a burst of brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Slice the crispy chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Pile the slaw into bowls or onto plates, then top generously with the chicken. Finish with more grated Parmesan and a handful of croutons if you’re feeling extra fancy. Every element in this Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken comes together for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal!
How to Serve Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can let your creativity shine! A generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan gives that signature Caesar touch, while croutons add an extra layer of crunch. For a pop of freshness, try a few shavings of lemon zest or a scatter of chopped fresh parsley. These little details make Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken look and taste even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it alongside a light soup, roasted potatoes, or a platter of seasonal fruit. Even a simple tomato salad or a few slices of avocado make lovely companions. Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the slaw and chicken in lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held appetizer, or pile everything into a wrap or sandwich for a portable lunch. Individual mason jar salads are perfect for meal prep or picnics. However you present it, Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken always gets rave reviews!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the slaw and crispy chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The slaw will stay crunchy for up to two days, and the chicken will keep its texture best if not mixed with the dressing until serving. Reassemble just before eating for maximum freshness!
Freezing
The crispy chicken cutlets can be frozen after cooking—just let them cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick meal. The slaw, however, is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well due to its high water content.
Reheating
To bring the chicken back to its crispy best, reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Once hot and crunchy, slice and serve over freshly tossed slaw for a lunch or dinner that feels freshly made.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! For a lighter take, bake the breaded chicken cutlets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. You’ll still get plenty of crunch with less oil, and it’s hands-off so you can prep the slaw while it cooks.
What’s the best way to shred cabbage for Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken?
A sharp chef’s knife works great for thinly slicing cabbage, but a mandoline slicer makes it even faster and more uniform. Pre-shredded bags of cabbage are also a handy shortcut if you’re short on time!
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Definitely! Try breaded tofu, crispy chickpeas, or even pan-seared shrimp for a delicious twist. The slaw and Caesar flavors pair beautifully with all kinds of proteins, so feel free to make Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken your own.
What kind of Caesar dressing should I use?
Both store-bought and homemade dressings work well here. If you’re using store-bought, look for one with real Parmesan and anchovy for the most authentic flavor. Homemade is always a treat if you have the time!
Can I prep Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken in advance?
You sure can! Marinate the chicken and prep the slaw ingredients ahead of time, keeping everything separate until you’re ready to cook and toss. This makes Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken a smart choice for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about the combination of creamy Caesar flavors, crunchy slaw, and irresistibly crispy chicken. I hope you’ll give Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken a try—whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. It’s a dish that always brings smiles and seconds, so dig in and enjoy every bite!
Print
Caesar Slaw with Crispy Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and crunchy Caesar Slaw with tender crispy chicken cutlets, tossed in a tangy Caesar dressing with vibrant shredded cabbage and carrots, topped with Parmesan cheese and optional croutons for added texture. Perfect for a satisfying main course salad that balances protein and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pan-frying)
Slaw
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Croutons for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken cutlets in a shallow bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Breading Mix: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge each cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres properly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken cutlets for 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest slightly.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, toss together shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots with Caesar dressing and freshly squeezed lemon juice until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Slice the crispy chicken into strips and arrange on top of the prepared slaw. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with croutons if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Substitute kale or romaine lettuce for part of the cabbage to vary the texture and flavor of the slaw.
- Add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra color, creaminess, and nutritional benefits.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
