Creamy Keto Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado – A Flavor-Packed Low-Carb Lunch in Just 15 Minutes!
Craving a creamy lunch that fits your keto diet? Try this Keto Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado recipe. This twist on the classic salad is full of juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and a tangy homemade keto-friendly Caesar dressing. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it suitable for both keto beginners and veterans.
The salad is rich in healthy fats and protein to keep your energy steady and cravings at bay. Start by grilling chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and herbs, and crisp up some bacon for crunch. Create a dressing with mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese—no added sugars or hidden carbs here! Toss the chicken, bacon, and avocado with fresh romaine lettuce, drizzle with dressing, and top with extra Parmesan. Whether for lunch at work or at home, this flavorful and nutritious salad is a tasty way to maintain your keto lifestyle.
Jump to RecipeHow to make keto chicken Caesar salad with avocado recipe
Ingredients of chicken Ceasar salad
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (limit for strict keto)
For the Keto Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, but recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional sweetener: A pinch of erythritol or stevia (if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it cool slightly, then slice or dice it. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Prepare the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped garlic, anchovy paste (if using), and Parmesan. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture reaches the desired consistency—season to taste with salt, pepper, and an optional sweetener.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced avocado, crumbled bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and cooked chicken.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the Keto Caesar dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Keto Chicken Caesar Salad with avocado
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the chicken in Italian dressing or a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to boost the taste.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture and flavor.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: Make the Caesar dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste: Adjust the amount of lemon juice, garlic, or anchovy paste in the dressing to suit your preferences.
- Use high-quality components: the healthier the components, the better the salad will taste!
Serving Suggestions of keto chicken Caesar salad with avocado recipe
- Serve as a main course. This salad is filling enough to be a complete meal.
- Pair with a keto soup: Enjoy it alongside a bowl of creamy broccoli and cheese soup or cauliflower soup.
- Add a Side of Keto Breadsticks: For a heartier meal, serve with keto-friendly breadsticks or cheese crisps.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the chicken, bacon, eggs, and dressing in advance for a quick and easy lunch throughout the week. To prevent the salad from becoming mushy, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Estimated)

Note: These values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Calories: 550-650 kcal
Net Carbs: 6-8 grams
Protein: 40-50 grams
Fat: 35-45 grams
Keto Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado
Course: Lunch, Main course, Recipes, SaladCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes15
minutes300
kcalA creamy, satisfying, and keto-friendly take on the classic Caesar salad! This recipe features juicy chicken, healthy avocado, crispy bacon, and a tangy homemade dressing.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 ripe avocado, diced
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Keto Caesar Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp anchovy paste (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1-2 tbsp water (to thin)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the chicken in olive oil until it’s done. Let it cool and slice.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a bowl.
- Combine lettuce, avocado, bacon, eggs, and chicken in a bowl.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and garlic to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions about the chicken Caesar salad recipe
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Romaine lettuce is traditional in Caesar salad for its crispness, but you can try other greens like peppery arugula, baby kale, or mixed greens.
Why are there no croutons in this keto recipe?
Bread, rich in carbs and unsuitable for keto, is omitted in this recipe to keep carbs low. Instead, use crispy bacon, cheese crisps, or cucumber slices for a similar crunch.
Is Caesar salad keto-friendly?

Croutons and high-carb dressing are common ingredients in traditional Caesar salads that are not keto-friendly. This dish omits the croutons and uses a keto-friendly dressing instead.
What other proteins can I add or substitute?
This salad is versatile; besides chicken, you can add grilled shrimp, salmon, steak, or a poached egg for extra protein.
Is store-bought Caesar dressing keto-friendly?
Many commercial Caesar dressings include added sugars, artificial preservatives, and thickeners that raise their carb content, making them unsuitable for strict keto diets. It’s best to check labels carefully or make a homemade version to fit keto guidelines.
What if my avocado turns brown after slicing?
Avocado browns quickly when exposed to air. To prevent this, cut it just before serving or, if preparing in advance, toss the pieces with lemon juice to slow oxidation.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the chicken and bacon and add more avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or other keto-friendly vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
Consume the salad as soon as possible after making it. Refrigerate individual components (chicken, lettuce, dressing) separately in airtight containers for up to three days.
Can I freeze chicken Caesar salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the lettuce and avocado will become mushy.
What can I use instead of anchovy paste?
If you dislike anchovies, you can omit the anchovy paste or use a small amount of Worcestershire sauce (check the label for carbs).
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes.
How can I make this salad dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, omit Parmesan cheese from the salad and dressing. Use nutritional yeast in the dressing for a cheesy flavor, and ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Keto Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic salad while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. With its creamy dressing, satisfying protein, and healthy fats, it’s a perfect lunch or light dinner option. The recipe is easy to customize to your liking, and the make-ahead tips make it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Say goodbye to carb cravings and hello to a tasty, guilt-free meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized!