Taylor's Kale Caesar with Montreal Red Grilled Chicken
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If you’re looking for a next-level salad that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, Taylor's Kale Caesar with Montreal Red Grilled Chicken deserves a spot on your table. Tender, massaged kale forms the hearty base, topped with juicy chicken with a subtle smoky, sweet, spicy flavour, crispy roasted chickpeas, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Whether you’re meal-prepping for busy lunches or making a fresh weeknight dinner, this salad checks all the boxes—protein-packed, gluten-free, and totally satisfying. Plus, our homemade Montreal Red blend makes every bite pop!
Kale Caesar Salad with Montreal Red Grilled Chicken
Rated 4.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Salad
Cuisine
Canadian
Author:
Taylor Willenborg
Servings
2
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Calories
560
This high-protein Kale Caesar salad is loaded with Montreal Red marinated chicken, crispy spiced chickpeas, and just the right amount of creamy Caesar dressing. Massaged kale brings a tender, nutrient-rich twist, while Parmesan adds a classic finish. Perfect for meal prep or quick dinners, it’s a farm-fresh take on a salad classic.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Breast
- 1–2 chicken breasts (about 300g total)
-
2–3 tsp Montreal Red Spice Blend
-
2–3 Tbsp olive oil
-
1–2 Tbsp lemon juice
For the Salad (Serves 2)
- 1 large bunch kale (de-stemmed, torn into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tsp olive oil (for massaging kale)
- 1–2 tsp fresh lemon juice
-
2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese (shaved or grated)
-
3–4 Tbsp Homemade Caesar Dressing (or Renee’s Caesar for a quick option)
For the Crispy Chickpeas
- 1 can (398 mL) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
-
1–3 tsp Montreal Red Spice Blend
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Easy Homemade Caesar Dressing
-
1.5 tsp Spicy Guac Blend
-
OR 1.5 tsp Danforth Greek
-
3 Tbsp mayonnaise
-
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
-
2 tsp lemon juice
-
¼ tsp Dijon Mustard
-
1 Tbsp Parmesan cheese (shaved or grated)
Directions
Prepare Chicken
- In a bowl, combine 2–3 tsp Montreal Red Spice Blend, 2–3 tbsp olive oil, and 1–2 tbsp lemon juice. Coat chicken breasts well, cover, and marinate 15–30 minutes (up to overnight).
- Grill, bake (400°F/200°C for 20–25 min), or pan-sear chicken until cooked through. Rest, then slice into strips.
- Prep the Kale:
- Place torn, de-stemmed kale in a large bowl.
- Add 2 tsp olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Massage kale for 1–2 minutes until dark green and tender.
Crispy Chickpeas:
- Dry chickpeas thoroughly and peel skins for extra crunch (optional but recommended).
- Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1–3 tsp Montreal Red Spice Blend, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, shaking tray halfway, until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Salad
Dress kale with Caesar salad dressing
- Toss with half the Parmesan and top with sliced chicken and crispy chickpeas.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top. Serve immediately.
Recipe Note
Serving Tips
Serve family-style on a platter or in individual bowls.
For picnics, keep chicken, kale, and chickpeas in separate containers and assemble right before eating.
Top with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon at the table for a bright finish.
Pro Tips for Kale
- De-stem Well: Remove the tough stems for a less chewy salad.
- Massage with Oil & Lemon: Use your hands! Massaging kale with olive oil and lemon for 1–2 minutes breaks down fibers, making leaves softer and less bitter.
- Salt Smarter: A pinch of salt while massaging helps tenderize kale.
- Bite-Sized Pieces:Chop kale finely for easier eating.
- Marinate Kale: For even more tender kale, massage with dressing and let sit for 10 minutes (or overnight—great for meal prep).
Quick Hacks
- No Cook option: Use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken to save time
- In a Hurry? Skip peeling chickpea skins, just roast a little longer for crispness.
- Meal and Snack Prep: Prep chickpeas in advance for the week; keep airtight for a crunchy snack or salad topper.
Keep Your Flavour Game Strong!
Ready to elevate your meals with bold, house-made flavors? Grab your Montreal Red Spice Blend and bring that smoky, spicy kick to your kale Caesar salad—and all your favorite dishes.
Did You Make Taylor’s Kale Caesar with Montreal Red Grilled Chicken?
Did You Make Taylor’s Kale Caesar with Montreal Red Grilled Chicken?
We love seeing your culinary creations, from vibrant salads to grilled masterpieces. Tag your pics on Instagram @FromLexsPantry or leave a review with a photo on our Montreal Red Spice Blend product page. Your delicious moments inspire us all!
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 2
- per serving
- Calories
- 560
- Protein
- 38 grams
- Carbs
- 26 grams
- Fat
- 32 grams
- Fiber
- 6 grams
