Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Ingredients

• 1.25 lbboneless chicken breasts$8.02
• 3 eachromaine lettuce hearts$1.86
• 0.5 cupParmesan cheese, shaved$3.34
• 1 cupcroutons$1.49
• 0.5 cupCaesar dressing$0.56
• 1 tbsplemon juice$0.08
• 1 tbspolive oil$0.25
• 0.5 tspgarlic powder$0.02
• 1 tspkosher salt$0.02
• 0.5 tspblack pepper$0.08
• Total for 4 servings$15.72

Most of the cost is boneless chicken breasts ($8.02) and parmesan cheese, shaved ($3.34). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $14.89. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Pat the boneless chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub both sides evenly with the olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Chop the romaine lettuce hearts into bite-sized pieces, rinse thoroughly in cold water, and dry completely in a salad spinner or on clean kitchen towels.
3. Heat an outdoor grill or indoor stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Grill the chicken breasts for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until distinct grill marks form and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with no pink remaining.
4. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing diagonally into thin strips. In a large salad bowl, toss the dried romaine with the Caesar dressing and lemon juice until evenly coated.
5. Divide the dressed romaine among four plates or shallow bowls, top with the sliced chicken, croutons and shaved Parmesan, and serve immediately.