Air Fryer Caesar Salad

My delicious air fryer Caesar salad is the perfect choice for a healthy lunch or starter. Or a light al fresco dinner during the warm summer months. This classic retro salad has always been one of my all-time favourites. And with the help of the speedy air fryer, it’s quicker, healthier, and easier to prepare than ever before. The combination of tender, juicy chicken breast with dressed lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy parmesan cheese creates a satisfying and flavourful meal that everyone will enjoy.

What makes this air fryer chicken Caesar salad so great is how quickly it comes together. Ready in just 20 minutes! The chicken cooks beautifully in the air fryer. With a perfect golden-brown crust on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside. Compared to using a traditional oven or grill, the air fryer is much quicker, and the result is consistently delicious chicken every time. It’s a fantastic way to prepare the chicken for your salad without the hassle and extra time of other cooking methods.

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. While you can make the Caesar dressing from scratch if you prefer, I find that using store-bought dressing is just as convenient and equally delicious. The beauty of this salad is its versatility. You can use a variety of salad leaves, such as spinach, arugula, or even mixed greens, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

Whether you’re looking for a light, fresh meal to enjoy on a sunny day or a simple yet flavourful dish for any occasion, this air fryer Caesar salad is an excellent choice.

PREP 5 minutes

COOK 20 minutes

SERVES 2 people

KIT you will need an air fryer and mixing bowl.

Ingredients for air fryer Caesar salad

2 chicken breasts

25g of iceberg lettuce

15g of Parmesan cheese, peeled

1 slice of crusty bread

4 tablespoons of store-bought Caesar salad dressing

1 teaspoon of oregano

Olive oil

Seasoning

Method

Start by preparing your chicken breasts. Lightly spray each breast with a little olive oil. Then season generously on both sides with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the flavour and helps the chicken crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Once seasoned, place the chicken breasts into the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced apart for even cooking. Set the air fryer to 190°C and cook for approximately 18 to 20 minutes. Turning the chicken over halfway through. This ensures both sides cook evenly and the meat stays juicy and tender throughout.

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare your homemade croutons. Take a slice of crusty bread – white, brown, or wholemeal, depending on your preference – and cut it into evenly sized cubes. Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle over a teaspoon of dried oregano. Add a pinch of sea salt and a little black pepper, then toss everything together until the croutons are well coated.

When the chicken has about five minutes left to cook, add the croutons to the air fryer drawer alongside the chicken. They’ll crisp up perfectly in those final few minutes.

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for a minute or two before slicing thinly. Meanwhile, wash and shred some iceberg lettuce and divide it between two serving bowls. Shave over some parmesan cheese for that classic Caesar flavour. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken. Then drizzle two tablespoons of Caesar dressing over each. Finally, sprinkle the crispy croutons on top. Serve immediately as a light lunch or a delicious dinner starter.

Tips for Air Fryer Caesar Salad

1. Make Air-Fried Croutons
Cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–6 minutes, shaking halfway. Golden and crunchy in minutes!

2. Air Fry the Protein

Chicken: Season and air fry boneless thighs or breasts at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Let rest before slicing.

Tofu or Tempeh: Cube, season, and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispy vegetarian twist.

Shrimp: Coat lightly in oil and garlic, then air fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes.

3. Char the Romaine (Optional but Amazing)
Halve romaine hearts lengthwise, brush with oil, and air fry cut side up at 390°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes. This adds a smoky, grilled flavour that pairs beautifully with Caesar dressing.

4. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Fresh Parm adds better flavour and texture than pre-grated. Shave it with a peeler or grate it finely for that signature Caesar bite.

5. Make or Enhance Your Dressing
Use a classic Caesar dressing or make your own with garlic, anchovy, Dijon, lemon juice, and egg or Greek yogurt. Add extra lemon or a splash of Worcestershire to balance the richness.

6. Don’t Over-drench the Salad
Lightly toss the romaine in dressing but don’t soak it. Add dressing gradually so it coats but doesn’t weigh the salad down.

7. Add Croutons Just Before Serving
For max crunch, toss croutons on at the last second. Otherwise, they’ll soften from the dressing.

8. Use a Big Bowl for Tossing
Tossing everything in a large bowl gives you even coverage without bruising the lettuce.

9. Top with a Finishing Touch
Add a final sprinkle of black pepper, chili flakes, or a drizzle of extra dressing right before serving for presentation and flavor pop.

10. Serve While Warm (Optional Twist)
A Caesar salad with warm chicken or grilled romaine feels hearty and elevated and is perfect for a dinner salad or light meal.