Craving Caesar without carbs? This keto bowl delivers!
This keto chicken Caesar bowl swaps croutons for roasted pepitas and uses a silky avocado dressing to create a 15-minute low-carb dinner that's satisfying and keto-friendly. Perfect for fall evenings when you want comfort food without the guilt.
With crisp romaine, grilled chicken, and a tangy dressing, this bowl redefines classic Caesar for keto dieters. The avocado-based dressing adds creaminess without dairy, while smoked paprika gives it a warm fall flavor.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to make and fits clean-eating guidelines. The roasted pumpkin seeds add crunch without carbs, making it a satisfying alternative to traditional versions.
Whether you're new to keto or a seasoned pro, this bowl offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and satisfied.
Why This Recipe Works
Zero Carbs, Full Flavor
The avocado dressing replaces croutons with pepitas and uses nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the carb count at 4g per serving while maintaining Caesar's signature taste.
15-Minute Meal
From prepped ingredients to plate, this recipe takes just 15 minutes. The quick assembly makes it perfect for weeknight dinners without sacrificing quality.
Nutrient-Dense
Packed with leafy romaine, high-protein chicken, and healthy fats from avocado. Each serving provides 35g of protein and 20g of fiber for lasting satiety.
Customizable
Add bacon for smokiness, swap romaine for kale, or include avocado slices for extra creaminess. The base recipe is flexible for dietary preferences.
Quick Keto Chicken Caesar Bowl
15-Minute Low-Carb Dinner for Fall
Ingredients
- - 1 (6 oz) grilled chicken breast, sliced
- - 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- - 1 avocado, pitted
- - 2 tbsp lemon juice
- - 1 clove garlic, minced
- - 1 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- - 1/2 cup roasted pepitas
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- - 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
Prepare Dressing: In food processor, combine avocado, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth.
💡 Tip: Add 1-2 tbsp water for desired consistency.
Assemble Bowl: Toss romaine with 1/4 cup dressing. Divide among bowls, top with chicken, pepitas, Parmesan, and remaining dressing.
💡 Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Finish with Paprika: Sprinkle smoked paprika and fresh dill over each bowl. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Toast pepitas in oven for 5 minutes for extra crunch.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Avocado
Creates a creamy base without dairy. Substitute with 1/2 cup mayonnaise for a different texture.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt, hummus
Roasted Pepitas
Provide crunch without carbs. Can use sunflower seeds or toasted walnuts.
Substitutions: Chopped almonds, pumpkin seeds
Dijon Mustard
Adds tangy flavor. Substitute with 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for a different taste.
Substitutions: White wine vinegar, lemon zest
Smoked Paprika
Adds warmth and color. Can use regular paprika or cumin.
Substitutions: Cumin, chili powder
Pro Tips for Perfect Caesar Bowls
Dressing Consistency
Add 1-2 tbsp water to the food processor if dressing is too thick. For a smoother texture, strain through a sieve.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare dressing and pepitas up to 2 days ahead. Store in airtight containers in refrigerator.
Add-Ins
Enhance flavor with 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or 2 tbsp chopped bacon bits.
Serving Suggestion
Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
Variations & Customizations
Keto Chicken Caesar with Bacon
Add 1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon for extra flavor and protein.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute chicken with 1/2 cup grilled tofu or tempeh.
Loaded Caesar
Add 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese and 2 tbsp chopped olives.
Spicy Version
Mix in 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Garlic herb roasted salmon
- Steamed broccoli with lemon butter
- Crusty sourdough bread
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing contrast to the rich dressing.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare dressing and pepitas up to 2 days ahead. Store in airtight containers in refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Store assembled bowls in airtight containers for up to 24 hours. Add dressing just before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Reheating Instructions
Best served fresh, but can be reheated in microwave for 30 seconds. Add extra dressing before serving.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes! Prepare dressing and pepitas up to 2 days ahead. Assemble bowls just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Q: How to fix runny dressing?
A: Chill dressing for 30 minutes to thicken. For extra creaminess, add 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
Q: Can I use pre-made chicken?
A: Yes, use 6 oz pre-cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for even faster assembly.
Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Store in airtight containers in refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Best when consumed fresh.
Final Thoughts
This keto chicken Caesar bowl proves you don't need traditional croutons to enjoy Caesar's signature flavors. The avocado-based dressing creates a creamy, tangy base that pairs perfectly with crisp romaine and smoky pepitas. Whether you're following a keto diet or simply looking for a lighter alternative to classic Caesar, this bowl delivers all the satisfaction with none of the carbs.
With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe fits busy weeknights while still feeling indulgent. The combination of grilled chicken, roasted pepitas, and homemade dressing creates a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and delicious. Don't miss the opportunity to transform your Caesar experience with this keto-friendly twist!
