Crunchy Chicken Caesar Sandwich – Crispy, Creamy & Flavor-Packed
This Crunchy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is the ultimate twist on a classic Caesar salad! Crispy chicken, fresh romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing are stacked inside toasted bread for a sandwich that’s bold, crunchy, and satisfying. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this easy recipe is a family favorite that combines comfort and freshness in every bite.
Equipment
- Skillet or air fryer for chicken
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork (for dressing)
- Knife + cutting board
- Spoon or spatula for assembly
- Optional: baking sheet, toaster
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs (or 2 cups rotisserie chicken)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Oil for frying or air-frying
For the Caesar Dressing:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated Parmesan
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: few drops of Worcestershire sauce or anchovy paste
For the Sandwich:
- 2–4 slices ciabatta, sourdough, baguette, or brioche buns
- 1–2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2–4 slices tomato (optional)
- Optional add-ins: croutons, crispy bacon, pickled onions, extra Parmesan
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko or crushed cornflakes.
- Cook Chicken: Fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C) or air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. Rest briefly.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire/anchovy until smooth.
- Prepare Bread & Lettuce: Toast bread slices. Toss romaine lightly in dressing.
- Assemble Sandwich: Layer lettuce on bottom bread, place chicken on top, add optional tomato, bacon, croutons, or pickled onions. Drizzle extra dressing if desired. Top with remaining bread slice.
- Serve: Slice in half and serve immediately for best crunch.
Notes
- Chicken Options: Grilled or rotisserie chicken can replace fried for lighter meals.
- Dressing Variations: Use Greek yogurt for a healthier version; add anchovy paste for authentic Caesar flavor.
- Bread Tips: Toasting creates a moisture barrier and prevents sogginess.
- Make Ahead: Cook chicken and prep dressing in advance; assemble right before serving.
- Extra Crunch: Croutons, bacon, or crispy onions elevate texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Use large romaine or collard leaves instead of bread.