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In the world of salads, few are as beloved as the classic Chicken Caesar Salad. Its combination of crisp romaine, savory chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons has made it a staple on menus everywhere. However, as more people become health-conscious and seek to incorporate more vegetables into their diets, a new twist on this classic has emerged: the Zesty Zucchini Noodle Chicken Caesar Salad. This innovative recipe replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," transforming a hearty dish into a light, refreshing meal that's perfect for summer.

Zucchini Noodle Chicken Caesar Salad

Discover a fresh, healthy twist on the classic Chicken Caesar Salad with this Zesty Zucchini Noodle Chicken Caesar Salad recipe! By replacing traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, or zoodles, you create a light, vibrant dish loaded with vitamins. This salad is not only low in calories but also a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Packed with flavors, it’s perfect for summer meals or any time you want a nutritious, satisfying option.

Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated

1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Croutons for topping

Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for enhanced flavor.

    Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

      Prepare Zoodles: While the chicken is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis to create noodles. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, you can lightly sauté the zucchini noodles in a separate pan for 2-3 minutes. Be cautious not to overcook them to maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess.

        Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the spiralized zucchini noodles, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced chicken. Drizzle your preferred Caesar dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

          Add Cheese & Toppings: Generously sprinkle the shaved or grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toss in some croutons. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley.

            Serve: Plate the Zucchini Noodle Chicken Caesar Salad into serving bowls and enjoy this delightful, healthy twist on a classic favorite!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings