Description
A structured, portable, and deeply satisfying meal prep lunch that wraps a juicy, herb-crusted chicken patty in crisp romaine lettuce instead of a bun, offering high protein and low refined carbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Caesar dressing
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon (5g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 heads romaine hearts, leaves separated and washed
- 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) croutons (whole wheat or sourdough)
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- Extra Caesar dressing for drizzling
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap or in a ziplock bag and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil until emulsified.
- Add chicken to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- While chicken rests, wash and dry romaine hearts, halve cherry tomatoes, and grate Parmesan.
- Assemble meal prep containers with a layer of romaine leaves, topped with sliced chicken, tomatoes, croutons, and Parmesan.
- Store extra dressing separately and add just before eating to prevent wilting.
Notes
Do not overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Keep dressing separate until serving to keep lettuce crisp. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lettuce-wrapped ch
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Grilled Chicken Caesar Burger, meal prep, healthy lunch, high protein, low carb, lettuce wrap, chicken breast, Caesar salad, quick dinner