If you love the crisp freshness of a Caesar salad and the satisfying heartiness of a good sandwich, this Chicken Caesar Sandwich brings both worlds together in one delicious bite. Tender grilled chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy lettuce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese are all nestled between toasted bread or a soft brioche bun. The result? A handheld version of your favorite salad that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic. I once made this with homemade Caesar dressing using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and it turned out wonderfully creamy yet light. Whether served warm or chilled, this sandwich is a quick and crowd-pleasing meal that feels both comforting and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is everything you love about Caesar salad — the tangy dressing, the savory Parmesan, and the crunch of lettuce — elevated with juicy chicken and a toasted bun. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying without being heavy, and endlessly customizable. Great for meal prep, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners, it’s a versatile favorite that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Print
Chicken Caesar Sandwich
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Diet: Halal
Description
A deliciously juicy Chicken Caesar Sandwich featuring tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing all layered on toasted sandwich rolls with Parmesan and a hint of lemon. A handheld twist on the classic Caesar salad!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns (toasted)
- 1 cup romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (plus more to taste)
- Optional: sliced tomato or crispy bacon
Instructions
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Grill or cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- In a mixing bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the sandwiches: layer Caesar-dressed lettuce, sliced chicken, and optional toppings (tomato or bacon) onto toasted rolls.
- Drizzle extra Caesar dressing if desired, close the sandwiches, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly grilled chicken for best flavor, or rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- Toast the buns lightly to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Add bacon or avocado slices for extra richness.
- Pairs perfectly with fries, chips, or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Grilled, Assembled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They’re lean, cook quickly, and absorb the Caesar flavors beautifully.
Caesar Dressing
The heart of the sandwich — creamy, tangy, and packed with Parmesan, garlic, and anchovy flavors. You can use store-bought or make your own for a fresher taste.
Romaine Lettuce
Adds that signature Caesar crunch and freshness. Shred or chop it finely so it layers easily inside the sandwich.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan brings a salty, nutty depth that ties the sandwich together.
Bread or Buns
Ciabatta rolls, brioche buns, or even toasted sourdough slices work wonderfully. Choose something sturdy enough to hold the dressing and chicken without getting soggy.
Garlic Butter
Brushing the bread with garlic butter before toasting adds extra richness and aroma.
Lemon Juice
A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors and balances the creamy dressing.
Salt and Black Pepper
For seasoning the chicken to perfection.
Olive Oil
Used for grilling or pan-searing the chicken to achieve a golden crust.
Directions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Set aside to rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- While the chicken rests, brush your buns or bread slices with garlic butter and toast them in the same pan until golden and crisp.
- In a bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Assemble the sandwich: layer lettuce mixture on the bottom bun, add sliced chicken, drizzle with extra dressing, and top with more Parmesan.
- Place the top bun or bread slice and serve immediately while warm and crisp.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent sogginess. Store leftover chicken separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before adding to your sandwich. The lettuce and dressing should be added fresh for best texture.
Variations and Customizations
Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap
Use a large tortilla instead of bread and wrap the ingredients for a portable lunch option.
Spicy Caesar Sandwich
Add a pinch of cayenne or drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a little heat.
Bacon Lover’s Twist
Add crispy bacon strips for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Base
Use cheesy garlic bread for an indulgent version that doubles down on flavor.
Lighter Option
Swap the Caesar dressing for a Greek yogurt-based version or use grilled chicken breast with light mayo and lemon.
Veggie Additions
Include sliced tomatoes or avocado for extra freshness and creaminess.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Coat the chicken in Parmesan before grilling for a crispy, flavorful crust.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great shortcut — just warm it slightly before assembling the sandwich.
What kind of bread works best?
Ciabatta rolls or brioche buns hold up well and add great flavor and texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep all the ingredients ahead but assemble just before eating to keep it fresh.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, ranch or garlic aioli also pair nicely with the chicken and lettuce.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread and add the lettuce last to keep moisture away from the bun.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Definitely — they’re juicier and add a bit more flavor.
What can I serve with this sandwich?
Crispy fries, potato wedges, or a light side salad make great accompaniments.
Can I grill the chicken outdoors?
Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the Caesar dressing.
How long does Caesar dressing last in the fridge?
Homemade dressing lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and skip the Parmesan for a lactose-free version.
Conclusion
This Chicken Caesar Sandwich turns a classic salad into a hearty, handheld meal full of flavor and crunch. The juicy chicken, tangy dressing, and crisp lettuce come together perfectly between toasted bread, creating a dish that’s quick, versatile, and always satisfying. It’s a go-to recipe for when you want something fresh yet filling — a timeless favorite you’ll make again and again.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!