Save This Avocado Chicken Caesar Grain Bowl is my solution for a fresh yet filling weeknight dinner when I want both flavor and balance. Juicy grilled chicken pairs with creamy avocado and crisp lettuce, all tied together by a Caesar dressing and tender grains. It has quickly become my go-to for meal prepping or upgrading a classic Caesar with a nourishing twist.
I started making these bowls when we needed a dinner that worked for everyone's tastes and leftovers for lunches. It is now the most-requested dish for Sunday family dinners and make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
- Quinoa or brown rice: These grains offer a hearty base Choose a fluffy quinoa or a nutty brown rice for different textures Look for grains with minimal broken pieces for the best texture
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds rich flavor to your grains Go for a broth labeled low-sodium to keep things light
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein Look for even-sized pieces for uniform grilling
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and carries flavor Go for extra-virgin for the biggest punch
- Garlic powder and dried Italian herbs: Season the chicken all over with these pantry favorites Freshness makes a difference so check they have a strong aroma
- Romaine lettuce: The classic crunch Pick a head with crisp deep green leaves
- Avocado: The creamy touch Choose fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has no dark spots
- Shaved Parmesan cheese: Delivers saltiness and umami Opt for a wedge and shave just before serving for superior flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Adds sweetness and color Select tomatoes that feel firm and smell fragrant
- Croutons: For crunch Use homemade if possible or choose ones with minimal additives
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy Caesar base Full-fat or light both work depending on your preference
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dressing Use fresh-squeezed for extra zing
- Dijon mustard: Gives depth and a bit of heat
- Small garlic clove: Brings sharpness to the dressing
- Anchovy fillets: The classic Caesar background taste optional but recommended Look for plump fillets packed in olive oil
- Worcestershire sauce: Rounds out the flavors
- Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste Freshly ground black pepper always adds the best finish
Instructions
- Cook the Grains:
- Rinse your chosen grain under cold water until the water runs mostly clear This removes any bitterness Bring two cups of water or broth to a boil in a saucepan Add your grains stir once then cover and reduce to low Cook quinoa about fifteen minutes or rice thirty-five minutes until tender Do not rush this step as properly cooked grains build the foundation for the whole bowl Fluff with a fork after resting and keep warm
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels Rub them on all sides with olive oil then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder Italian herbs salt and pepper Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high until hot Add the chicken and cook five to seven minutes per side without pressing down letting the grill marks develop Flip once only so they stay juicy After removing from the heat let the chicken rest five minutes to keep juices in before slicing against the grain
- Make the Caesar Dressing:
- Measure the mayonnaise into a small mixing bowl Add freshly grated Parmesan lemon juice Dijon mustard minced garlic chopped anchovies if using Worcestershire a pinch of salt and pepper Whisk thoroughly until silky smooth and combined Taste and adjust seasoning as you like Refrigerate until serving
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the warm grains evenly between four serving bowls Arrange a generous layer of chopped romaine over the grains Neatly fan sliced chicken breasts and avocado over the greens Add cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with shaved Parmesan Next add a handful of croutons to each bowl for crunch
- Top and Serve:
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing over each bowl just before eating Toss gently to coat everything lightly in dressing or serve with a wedge of lemon for a tangy boost
Save The real winner for me is the avocado especially when it is perfectly ripe and silky It brings the whole bowl together with its cool richness A favorite family memory is my youngest sneaking extra avocado slices before the bowls are even assembled
Storage Tips
Store each element separately for optimal texture Refrigerate the chicken and grains in airtight containers The lettuce avocado and tomatoes should be stored uncut until serving For the best results keep the Caesar dressing in a small covered jar and only add right before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
People sensitive to anchovies can simply leave them out of the dressing If you want an even lighter meal swap half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt Farro barley or even bulgur make good stand-ins for quinoa or rice Use gluten-free croutons for a wheat-free bowl
Serving Suggestions
These bowls are wonderful for a gathering since everyone can build their own I often serve them with lemon wedges and extra shaved Parmesan For a party include a side of garlic bread and a simple sparkling drink
Cultural Context
The Caesar salad traces its roots to Mexico not Italy and its creamy punchy flavors are instantly familiar Adding grains brings extra staying power making it a main dish The grain bowl trend reflects how we are remixing classics to pack in more nutrtition and flavor in every bite
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out cherry tomatoes for roasted sweet potatoes in the cold months Fresh sweet corn or sliced cucumber can take the place of tomatoes in the summer Add grilled asparagus or roasted peppers for spring freshness
Success Stories
Friends have doubled this recipe for a school lunch swap and report even the pickiest eaters cleaned their bowls For a potluck party I once made a tray of all the components and let everyone assemble their own bowls It was a hit and not a single crouton remained at the end
Freezer Meal Conversion
While the lettuce and avocado are best fresh the grilled chicken and grains freeze well in individual portions Just thaw overnight in the fridge and add toppings from scratch on busy mornings
Save This grain bowl brings comfort with freshness and is sure to become a versatile staple for weeknights and gatherings alike.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute a different grain for quinoa or rice?
Yes, farro, barley, or couscous work well. Adjust cooking time as needed for each grain.
- → What is the best way to grill chicken breasts?
Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high, season the chicken well, and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until juices run clear.
- → Is there a lighter option for the Caesar dressing?
Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to lower calories and add tang. The dressing remains creamy and flavorful.
- → How do I make vegetarian bowls?
Omit anchovies in the dressing and use a vegetarian Parmesan alternative. Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu.
- → Can I prepare elements ahead of time?
Yes, grains, chicken, and dressing can be made in advance and stored separately. Assemble bowls when ready to serve.