Seven-layer chicken Caesar salad

Here’s a recipe for Seven-Layer Chicken Caesar Salad that’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep:

Ingredients:

For the salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Caesar dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: Anchovy paste (for a more traditional flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until smooth. Set aside.
2. Assemble the salad:
   • In a large glass or serving bowl, layer the ingredients in the following order:
     • First layer: Romaine lettuce
     • Second layer: Cherry tomatoes
     • Third layer: Red onion
     • Fourth layer: Shredded chicken
     • Fifth layer: Croutons
     • Sixth layer: Crumbled bacon
     • Seventh layer: Shredded Parmesan cheese
3. Add the dressing:
   • Drizzle the prepared Caesar dressing over the top of the salad just before serving.
4. Serve:
   • You can serve it immediately, or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors meld. Mix the salad just before serving to combine all the layers.

Tips:

• For extra crunch, you can add a layer of chopped cucumbers or bell peppers.
• Grilled chicken works well for added flavor.

This layered presentation makes it look stunning and keeps the salad ingredients fresh!