There’s something magical about combining two beloved comfort foods into one extraordinary dish. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub takes the classic Caesar salad experience and transforms it into a handheld masterpiece that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving something indulgent yet satisfying. This recipe was born from my love of crispy chicken cutlets and the timeless appeal of Caesar salad, creating a fusion that delivers maximum flavor in every bite.
What makes this Homemade Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub truly special is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The golden, crispy Parmesan crust on the chicken provides a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy Caesar dressing and fresh romaine lettuce. Unlike traditional Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwiches, this version elevates the experience with a perfectly seasoned, restaurant-quality chicken breast that’s been coated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and herbs, then baked to golden perfection.
Recipe Information
- Difficulty: Medium
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 generous subs
- Estimated Cost: Medium
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub
For the Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
Equipment Required
- Large baking sheet
- Wire cooling rack
- 3 shallow dishes for breading station
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen thermometer (optional)
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and creates a tender, juicy result. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
Create your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. The key to a crispy crust is making sure the coating adheres well to the chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place a wire rack on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Arrange the breaded chicken breasts on the rack, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Make Caesar Dressing
While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and minced anchovies (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be creamy and well-balanced.
Step 6: Prepare the Salad Components
Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Having all components ready makes assembly quick and efficient.
Step 7: Slice and Assemble
Slice the rested chicken breasts diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lightly toast the sub rolls if desired. Spread Caesar dressing on both sides of each roll. Layer with romaine lettuce, sliced Parmesan crusted chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and capers if using. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Double-coat for extra crunch: For an even crispier coating, dip the breaded chicken back into the egg and breadcrumb mixture for a second coating.
- Temperature matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature without overcooking.
- Fresh Parmesan is key: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the rest: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, tender meat.
Delicious Variations:
- Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: Transform this into a Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad by serving the sliced chicken over cooked pasta with the same Caesar dressing and vegetables.
- Wrap Style: Use large tortillas instead of sub rolls for a Caesar chicken wrap.
- Lighter Version: Bake the chicken without breading and serve over a larger Caesar salad for a lower-carb option.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for heat.
Storage and Meal Prep:
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Caesar dressing keeps for up to one week refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Prep ahead: Bread the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Perfect Pairings:
Serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub with:
- Crispy sweet potato fries
- Classic coleslaw
- Tomato basil soup
- Garlic roasted vegetables
- Fresh fruit salad
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 685
- Protein: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 1,240mg
- Calcium: 285mg (from Parmesan cheese)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Homemade Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub ahead of time?
While the chicken can be breaded and refrigerated up to 4 hours before cooking, it’s best to assemble the subs just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. You can prep all components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
What’s the difference between this and regular Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwiches?
This recipe features a specially seasoned Parmesan crust on the chicken that’s baked rather than grilled or pan-fried. The crust adds extra flavor and texture that elevates it beyond traditional chicken Caesar sandwiches. The homemade Caesar dressing also makes a significant difference in taste.
Can I turn this into a Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad instead?
Absolutely! Cook 1 pound of your favorite pasta according to package directions. Toss with the Caesar dressing, chopped romaine, tomatoes, and red onion. Top with sliced Parmesan crusted chicken and additional Parmesan cheese for a delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad.
How do I ensure the Parmesan crust stays crispy?
The key is using panko breadcrumbs mixed with freshly grated Parmesan, baking on a wire rack to allow air circulation, and not overcrowding the pan. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the chicken.
What’s the best Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe modification for dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your sub rolls are gluten-free. For dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and use vegan mayo in the dressing. For keto: Skip the breadcrumbs and serve over extra lettuce instead of in a sub roll.
Conclusion
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub represents the perfect marriage of comfort food and fresh flavors. The crispy, golden chicken paired with the classic Caesar salad components creates a sandwich that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe delivers every time.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – you can easily adapt it into Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwiches for a lighter lunch, transform it into a Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad for a crowd-pleasing side dish, or follow this Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe as written for the ultimate sub experience.
Have you tried this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Caesar Salad Sub recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below sharing your results, any variations you tried, or questions you might have. Don’t forget to share photos of your creation on social media – there’s nothing more satisfying than showing off a perfectly golden, crispy chicken sub!
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