High-Protein Caesar Salad: Healthy & Delicious

Servings: 4 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
High-Protein Caesar Salad
High-Protein Caesar Salad Handheld photo of roasted cabbage Caesar salad with chicken, topped with breadcrumbs and parsley on a white plate with a lavender napkin. pinit

Ever had that “Oh no, what’s for dinner?” moment? That’s exactly where Caesar Cardini was in 1924—except he had a restaurant full of hungry customers waiting. With barely anything in his pantry, he grabbed lettuce, eggs, olive oil, and anchovies and just went for it. The result? Caesar Salad! But let’s be real… if he saw us roasting cabbage for his creation, he’d probably raise an eyebrow and say, “That’s not what I meant!”

Roasted Cabbage: A Smoky, Nutritious Twist

Fast forward to today, and the Caesar Salad is getting a smoky upgrade with roasted cabbage. Trust me, this isn’t just a random swap—it’s pure flavor gold. Roasting cabbage gives it a caramelized edge that lettuce could only dream of. Plus, did you know roasting actually makes cabbage healthier? Yep, it packs in more antioxidants and all those good-for-you nutrients. Who knew cabbage could be the star of the show?

Salad That Surprises and Delights

Picture this: my kids, who act like veggies are plotting against them, actually liked it. My husband? He couldn’t stop eating it. The smoky cabbage, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings made everyone forget they were eating something healthy. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar. Seriously, who knew a salad could bring so much joy?

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)
Ingredients for High-Protein Caesar Salad
How to Make This High-Protein Caesar Salad
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Tips & FAQs

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights) 🌟

Here’s why this high-protein Roasted Cabbage Caesar Salad with Chicken Recipe deserves a spot on your table (or meal-prep plan)! 👇

  • Packed with Protein:
    With over 35g of protein per serving, this salad is a muscle-building, energy-boosting superstar! 💪 Whether you’re hitting the gym or just need a satisfying meal, this one’s got you covered.
  • Gluten-Free Option Available:
    Gluten-free? No problem! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones or crushed pork rinds to keep it crispy without the gluten.
  • Meal-Prep Superstar:
    This salad holds up like a champ! Roast the cabbage and chicken ahead of time, and keep the dressing separate for a ready-to-go, fresh-tasting meal all week.
  • Family-Friendly:
    Even picky eaters can’t resist the crispy, golden panko topping and creamy Caesar vibes. Trust me—this recipe gets kid and spouse approval in my house! 🏠
  • Dairy-Free Adaptable:
    Need it dairy-free? Just swap the Parmesan and Greek yogurt for plant-based alternatives. Same creamy goodness, zero dairy.
  • Perfect for All Seasons:
    This dish shines in the colder months when cabbage is at its best, but honestly, it’s so good you’ll crave it year-round. 🌦️
  • Customizable for Any Diet:
    From keto to paleo to gluten-free, this recipe is as flexible as your yoga instructor. 🧘‍♀️ Adjust a few ingredients, and you’re good to go!

With flavor, nutrition, and ease, this salad is a triple threat. What’s not to love? 😍

Ingredients Needed

High-Protein Caesar Salad Glass bowl with cabbage, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and parsley, surrounded by small bowls of dressing ingredients on a wooden table.

For the Salad:

  • Green cabbage
  • Lemon zest
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Garlic-and-herb seasoning
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Dressing:

  • Lemon juice
  • Dijon mustard
  • Ground pepper
  • Salt
  • Mayonnaise
  • Greek-style yogurt
  • Water
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Anchovy paste
  • Grated garlic

For the Crunchy Topping:

  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese

How to Make High-Protein Caesar Salad

  1. Roast the Cabbage and Chicken:
    Prepare the cabbage and chicken with seasonings, roast them on lined baking sheets at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, rotating pans for even cooking.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    Whisk mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, Worcestershire, and seasonings into a smooth Caesar-style dressing.
  3. Toast the Brea
  4. dcrumbs:
    Toast panko breadcrumbs in olive oil with garlic-and-herb seasoning until golden.
  5. Assemble the Salad:
    Toss roasted cabbage with Parmesan and dressing. Top with toasted breadcrumbs and sliced chicken. Serve extra dressing on the side.
High-Protein Caesar Salad Close-up of roasted cabbage Caesar salad with chicken, showing crispy breadcrumbs and parsley on a white plate with a soft background.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Storage Tips 🥡

Keep your leftovers fresh and fabulous with these easy storage tips…

  • Store Separately for Best Results:
    Keep the roasted cabbage, chicken, and dressing in separate airtight containers. This prevents soggy salads and keeps everything tasting fresh!
  • Refrigerate Like a Pro:
    Pop the chicken and cabbage in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dressing can hang out for up to 5 days—just give it a quick whisk before serving.
  • Reheat Wisely:
    Warm the chicken and cabbage gently in the oven or microwave. Don’t overheat; you want them to stay tender and not dry out.
  • Freeze the Chicken Only:
    If you’ve got extra chicken, freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and pair with freshly roasted cabbage for a quick meal later.

Serving Tips 🍴

Make your salad shine with these pro-level serving ideas…

  • Plate It Pretty:
    Layer the roasted cabbage as a bed, top with sliced chicken, drizzle with dressing, and finish with that crunchy breadcrumb-Parmesan combo. Hello, restaurant vibes!
  • Add a Little Extra Love:
    Want more color? Toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes or sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It’s like a Caesar salad makeover!
  • Serve It Fresh:
    This salad tastes best right after assembly when the cabbage is warm, the chicken is juicy, and the breadcrumbs are crisp.
  • Pair with Sides:
    Make it a meal with a bowl of keto-friendly soup or some roasted veggies on the side. Bonus: it pairs wonderfully with sparkling water or a light white wine. 🍷
  • Great for Meal Prep:
    Assemble portions in meal-prep containers with dressing on the side. Perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners during a busy week!

With these tips, your salad is guaranteed to stay delicious and Instagram-worthy, no matter when or where you’re serving it! 📸✨

Tips & FAQs

Is Caesar salad with chicken good for you?

Yes, Caesar salad with chicken can be healthy! Chicken provides lean protein, while lettuce adds vitamins and minerals. To make it healthier, opt for lighter dressings or homemade versions using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Watch out for high-calorie croutons and cheeses—moderation is key!

Can you eat cabbage raw in salad?

Absolutely! Raw cabbage is not only safe to eat but also highly nutritious. It adds a satisfying crunch to salads and is loaded with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestion and overall health. Combine it with other fresh ingredients for a refreshing, nutrient-packed salad.

How does Gordon Ramsay make Caesar salad?

Gordon Ramsay puts a creative twist on the classic Caesar salad. He often grills the lettuce for a smoky flavor and makes a creamy dressing from scratch using egg yolks, Dijon mustard, anchovies, and olive oil. His version includes homemade croutons and is rich, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy.

Which cabbage is best for salads?

Both green and red cabbage work wonderfully in salads! Green cabbage is mild and crisp, making it a versatile choice, while red cabbage offers a slightly peppery flavor and vibrant color. If you’re after a mix of flavor and aesthetics, use a combination of both for the best of both worlds.

Can I eat Caesar salad for weight loss?

Yes, Caesar salad can be part of a weight loss plan with a few tweaks. Use a lighter dressing, reduce cheese and crouton quantities, and add extra veggies like spinach or kale for more fiber. These changes make the salad more filling and lower in calories, helping with weight management.

Can we eat cabbage salad at night?

Yes, cabbage salad is a great evening meal option! It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it filling without being heavy. However, if you’re sensitive to cruciferous vegetables, you might want to eat it earlier in the day to avoid potential digestive discomfort.

These FAQs cover everything you need to know about Caesar salad, cabbage, and incorporating them into a healthy diet. Happy eating! 🥗✨

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the High-Protein Caesar Salad—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

High-Protein Caesar Salad Plate of roasted cabbage Caesar salad with chicken, with a hand holding a fork above the plate, set on an elegant table setting.
Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 25 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Temp: 400  °F Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 17 Calories: 400
Best Season: Fall, Winter

Description

Enjoy this high-protein Roasted Cabbage Caesar Salad with Chicken Recipe—low-carb, keto-friendly, and packed with flavor for a healthy meal.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

For the Dressing:

For the Crunchy Topping:

Instructions

Prep and Roast the Cabbage and Chicken:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F with racks in the top and lower thirds. Line two large baking sheets with foil.
  2. Divide the chopped cabbage between the baking sheets. Sprinkle with lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon garlic-and-herb seasoning. Toss to coat, then push the cabbage on one baking sheet to one side.
  3. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon each of garlic-and-herb seasoning and mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon each of pepper and salt. Place the chicken on the open side of the baking sheet.
  4. Bake, rotating pans halfway through, for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage is caramelized and tender, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.

Make the Dressing:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, water, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, grated garlic, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper until smooth. Cover and set aside.

Toast the Panko:

  1. Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic-and-herb seasoning. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a small bowl to cool.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Transfer the roasted cabbage to a large serving bowl. Toss with 1/4 cup dressing and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese until coated. Sprinkle the toasted panko over the top.
  2. Slice the chicken into 1/2-inch-thick pieces and arrange over the salad. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.

Serve:

  1. Serve immediately with the remaining 1/4 cup dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 400kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
Protein 35g70%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

When I first whipped up this high-protein Roasted Cabbage Caesar Salad with Chicken Recipe, I wasn’t sure how it would land with my picky eaters at home. My husband, the "meat-and-potatoes" guy, was suspicious of the cabbage. But one bite of the smoky, caramelized goodness topped with that creamy dressing, and he was hooked. My kids—let’s just say breadcrumbs make everything a winner in their book! Watching them devour a salad (yes, a salad!) was my ultimate mom win. This recipe is now a family favorite and a regular on our dinner table. Give it a try—I promise it’s a hit! ❤️

Keywords: high-protein chicken salad recipe low-carb roasted cabbage salad keto-friendly Caesar salad with chicken gluten-free chicken Caesar salad healthy roasted cabbage recipes easy high-protein salads for meal prep low-calorie chicken and cabbage salad paleo roasted cabbage and chicken salad dairy-free Caesar salad with chicken high-protein low-carb dinner recipes
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Kristy Cook

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Kristy Cook, A passionate food enthusiast and recipe creator. I love crafting delicious, healthy meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. My goal is to inspire you to embrace wholesome cooking in your everyday life, making it simple and enjoyable.

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