Save to Pinterest This Avocado Chicken Caesar Grain Bowl is my solution for a quick nourishing dinner that tastes like your favorite Caesar salad with the filling power of whole grains and protein. Between the tangy dressing creamy avocado juicy chicken and crunchy toppings you will find yourself craving this time and again.
The first time I made this was after a long workday when everyone wanted something fresh but hearty. The colorful bowls disappeared fast and now it is my go-to for meal prep lunches too.
Ingredients
- Quinoa or brown rice: As your hearty grain base choose whichever you prefer for a nutty fluffiness
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: For cooking grains broth adds deeper savory flavor
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein slice thinly for best tenderness
- Olive oil: For juicy chicken and a golden finish pick a high-quality extra virgin for flavor
- Garlic powder and dried Italian herbs: Giving tons of flavor without extra chopping
- Salt and black pepper: Classic essentials for seasoning all components
- Romaine lettuce: For crunch and freshness look for firm crisp heads not wilted leaves
- Avocado: Creamy richness and healthy fats use one that is slightly soft but not mushy for velvety slices
- Shaved Parmesan cheese: Classic Caesar flavor and saltiness choose a wedge to shave fresh if possible
- Cherry tomatoes: Pops of color and sweetness go for ripe but not soft for the freshest bite
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought for the crunchy factor check ingredient labels if you are gluten-sensitive
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: If lightening up for a creamy dressing base
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a tangy kick to your Caesar dressing fresher the better
- Lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness roll the lemon on the counter before juicing for more yield
- Dijon mustard: Adds depth and gentle heat try a smooth Dijon not the grainy kind
- Fresh garlic clove: For punch rinse or soak minced garlic in a little lemon juice to tame the bite if needed
- Anchovy fillets: Optional but traditional for deep umami flavor use the best canned anchovies you can find
- Worcestershire sauce: Amps up that umami note
- Salt and pepper: Lets you control dressing sharpness and bite
Instructions
- Cook the Grains:
- Rinse your choice of quinoa or rice with cold water to remove extra starch and bitterness. Place the grains and the water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat then immediately lower to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook until tender. For quinoa this means 15 minutes for brown rice it may need up to 35 minutes. Once the liquid is absorbed remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes then fluff with a fork for perfect texture.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry. Drizzle and rub in olive oil then sprinkle garlic powder Italian herbs salt and black pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high. Place the chicken onto the hot surface. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side until a thermometer reads 74 Celsius or 165 Fahrenheit at the thickest part. Rest the chicken on a plate for 5 minutes this keeps juices inside. Slice thinly across the grain for tender pieces.
- Make the Caesar Dressing:
- Add mayonnaise grated Parmesan lemon juice Dijon mustard garlic anchovies if using Worcestershire and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a medium bowl. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lemon juice or pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide grains evenly among four serving bowls. Top with chopped romaine lettuce sliced chicken avocado slices halved cherry tomatoes shaved Parmesan and croutons. Each layer adds its own flavor texture and temperature for the ultimate bite.
- Dress and Finish:
- Drizzle each bowl generously with Caesar dressing. Toss gently just before eating if you want the full creamy effect or leave undressed for those who prefer to dip as they eat.
Save to Pinterest Chicken is always a favorite at our table but I have a special place in my heart for the homemade Caesar dressing. Adding anchovy fillets makes it taste like a restaurant specialty and every time it takes me back to birthday dinners with my sister where Caesar salad was a must-order.
Storage Tips
Store undressed salad and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Keep dressing in a small jar or covered bowl. If prepping bowls to-go add avocado right before eating to keep it bright and fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap quinoa for farro barley or even cooked bulgur for a different texture. You can use rotisserie chicken in a pinch or even grilled shrimp for seafood lovers. Try kale instead of romaine or skip the cheese to keep it dairy-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with lemon wedges or add a handful of arugula for more greens. This bowl pairs nicely with sparkling water with lemon or a crisp white wine. For extra crunch toss in roasted chickpeas.
Caesar Grain Bowls Around the World
Traditional Caesar salad hails from 1920s Tijuana Mexico but this bowl twist brings it into a hearty modern meal. Grain bowls have roots in many cultures that celebrate mixing grains proteins and fresh produce.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this nourishing grain bowl with your favorite toppings. It is the perfect balance of creamy tangy and crunchy in every bite.