If you’re ready to reinvent burger night, this Chicken Caesar burger recipe is your new secret weapon! Imagine succulent, lemon-tinged grilled chicken nestled in toasted ciabatta, all slathered with velvety Caesar mayo and sprinkled with fresh Parmesan shavings. It’s everything you adore about a classic Caesar salad, transformed into a wildly satisfying handheld feast. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a fun spin on weeknight dinner, this burger is bound to win over friends and family alike.

Chicken Caesar burger recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Caesar burger recipe lies in its simple lineup of kitchen staples, each chosen for how it layers in flavor, texture, or color. Don’t skip a thing—every ingredient plays a starring role in building that iconic Caesar taste and burger bliss!

Chicken breasts: Juicy, lean, and perfect for flattening—these are the foundation of your burger patty.
Olive oil: Not only does it keep the chicken moist, but it helps the flavors cling during marination.
Lemon (zested): Adds a bright, fresh zing to both the chicken and Caesar mayo.
Garlic cloves: Finely chopped to infuse both the chicken and the Caesar spread with that unmistakable pungent kick.
Romaine lettuce: Torn leaves offer crispness and a hint of sweetness—absolutely crucial for a proper Caesar.
Ciabatta rolls: With their chewy interior and crispy crust, these rolls are made for holding hearty fillings without falling apart.
Parmesan (thin shavings and finely grated): Two textures bring rich, umami depth—don’t skimp on quality here!
Mayonnaise: Forms the velvety base for an instantly creamy Caesar sauce.
Lemon juice: Balances the richness of the mayo with a welcome citrus snap.
Anchovy fillets: Don’t be shy! Chopped up fine, they bring a savory backbone to your Caesar mayo.

How to Make Chicken Caesar burger recipe

Step 1: Flatten and Marinate the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of clingfilm or baking paper and gently pound with a rolling pin until they’re about 1.5cm thick. This ensures even cooking and that satisfying restaurant-style texture. Marinate the chicken in olive oil, fresh lemon zest, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it chill in the fridge while you prep everything else—the flavors happily mingle while you work!

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Lay those beautifully marinated chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for a golden, caramelized crust and absolutely no pink inside. This is where the magic happens: the aromas alone will draw a crowd!

Step 3: Whip Up Caesar Mayonnaise

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, finely chopped anchovy fillets, and finely grated Parmesan. Stir it all together until creamy and smooth—it’s salty, tangy, and so luscious you’ll want to spread it on everything. This creamy Caesar mayo transforms the Chicken Caesar burger recipe into something truly special.

Step 4: Toast the Ciabatta Rolls

Slice your ciabatta rolls in half and toast them—either under the grill or in your toaster. You want the surfaces crisp but still tender inside. This step ensures every bite is sturdy enough to hold up to all those juicy layers, while adding a hint of crunch to contrast the fillings.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Now for the best part! Generously slather Caesar mayo on both sides of your toasted ciabatta. Top with grilled chicken, plenty of crisp romaine lettuce, and finish with delicate Parmesan shavings. Put the lid on and give it a gentle press—your Chicken Caesar burger recipe is ready for its debut!

How to Serve Chicken Caesar burger recipe

Garnishes

A final flourish of extra Parmesan shavings on top and maybe a twist of fresh cracked black pepper drives home those classic Caesar vibes. For color and pop, a few leaves of baby basil or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley never hurt!

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Caesar burger recipe with golden fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing cucumber-tomato salad. If you want to double-down on Caesar, try serving with extra Caesar-dressed greens on the side for pure flavor harmony!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving sliders on mini ciabatta rolls for party bites, or deconstruct the burger into a Chicken Caesar salad (with toasted crouton “rolls” on the side) for a lighter touch. These burgers look gorgeous stacked high on a wooden board—let everyone build their own for a fun dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover assembled burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the components (chicken, Caesar mayo, veggies, and rolls) separately for the freshest texture when reassembling later.

Freezing

Grilled chicken freezes beautifully—place cooled chicken breasts into a freezer bag, label, and freeze for up to 2 months. Caesar mayo and veggies are best enjoyed fresh, but rolls can also be frozen and reheated later.

Reheating

To reheat chicken, use the oven or a skillet to gently warm through until hot. Toast ciabatta rolls fresh, then assemble with cold lettuce and Caesar mayo just before serving for the best flavor and texture in your Chicken Caesar burger recipe.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to flatten and cook them thoroughly, as they might take an extra minute or two per side compared to breasts.

What if I don’t like anchovies?

You can skip the anchovies in the mayo, but they really help recreate that authentic Caesar taste. Try using a splash of Worcestershire sauce as an alternative for a touch of umami!

How can I make this Chicken Caesar burger recipe gluten-free?

Swap the ciabatta for your favorite gluten-free buns or skips the bread altogether and serve as a lettuce wrap for a lighter, gluten-free option.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Chicken Caesar burger recipe?

Absolutely—swap in grilled portobello mushrooms or a thick slice of roasted cauliflower in place of chicken. Keep the Caesar mayo (use vegetarian Parmesan) for that signature flavor!

Can I cook the chicken on a barbecue?

Yes, grilling over hot coals adds a delicious smoky flavor. You can start the chicken in the oven for even cooking, then give it a final char on the barbecue for 1–2 minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something fresh, hearty, and a bit out of the ordinary, you just have to give this Chicken Caesar burger recipe a try. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and an unforgettable twist on two classics—burgers and Caesar salad. Dive in, have fun with the toppings, and make it your own!

Chicken Caesar burger recipe