Description

Crunchy, creamy, and packed with bold flavor—these Fried Chicken Caesar Salad Tacos are a fresh take on two all-time favorites. Crispy, golden chicken strips are paired with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and shaved parmesan, all wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla. It’s the ultimate fusion of comfort food and salad that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
½ cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt mixed with a little water)
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Caesar Salad:

2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
¼ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup grated or shaved parmesan cheese
Fresh black pepper to taste
Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

For the Tacos:

6–8 small flour or corn tortillas
Additional parmesan for topping
Optional: diced tomatoes, crouton crumbs, or avocado slices

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken strips in a bowl with buttermilk.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In another bowl, mix flour, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Remove chicken from the buttermilk and coat each strip in the flour mixture.
Set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot (about 350°F), add chicken strips in batches.
Fry 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Toss the Salad
In a bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing and parmesan.
Add cracked pepper and lemon juice if desired.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side, or wrap in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Lay warm tortillas flat and place 2–3 pieces of fried chicken in each.
Top with a scoop of Caesar salad.
Sprinkle with extra parmesan and add any optional toppings.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t Skip the Buttermilk – It makes the chicken extra tender and flavorful.
Double-Coat for More Crunch – Dip chicken in buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
Use Fresh Romaine – It stays crispy and holds up better with the dressing.
Add Crunch – Top with crumbled croutons for a fun Caesar twist.
Make It Lighter – Air-fry or bake the chicken instead of frying.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion