Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup

Name: Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped; 1 cup croutons; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes

I love making Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something both warm and hearty. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad into a comforting soup that’s fantastic for dinner or a cozy gathering. The rich broth infused with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan delivers every bit of that familiar Caesar experience, while croutons add a delightful crunch. It’s quick to prepare yet feels special enough to impress my guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:22:27.882Z

When I decided to turn my favorite salad into a soup, I was both excited and a bit skeptical. After trying different methods, I found that grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth that truly elevates the dish. I also learned that using homemade croutons instead of store-bought ones makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. They soak up the broth perfectly without becoming mushy.

This soup has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, crisp lettuce, and creamy dressing creates a deliciously unique dish. Plus, it comes together in about 45 minutes, making it easy for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of grilled chicken combined with classic Caesar dressing
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
A fun and unexpected twist on a beloved salad

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. The grilled chicken, seasoned and charred, infuses the soup with a smoky richness. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of preparation. The heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess, making the broth velvety, while the Worcestershire sauce contributes a depth of flavor that enhances the overall savory profile. When choosing your Parmesan cheese, use freshly grated for the best melt and flavor infusion.

The romaine lettuce is not just a garnish; it’s integral to the Caesar flavor profile. When added towards the end of cooking, it retains a slight crunch, providing a welcome texture contrast to the creamy broth. Aim for bright green, crisp leaves, and store it properly before use to maintain its freshness. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving to brighten the taste.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Getting the chicken just right is essential for a hearty soup. When grilling, ensure your grill pan is preheated to medium heat to achieve nice grill marks and an even cook. Keeping the lid closed helps maintain temperature, enabling the chicken to cook through in about 12-14 minutes total. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful once diced into the soup.

Sautéing the garlic until fragrant before adding the broth releases its essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can impart a bitter taste. After combining the broth and cream, look for a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent the cream from curdling. If you notice separation or curdling, reduce the heat and stir continually to help reincorporate the mixture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup:

Ingredients

2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
1 cup croutons
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to gather everything before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Here are the steps to create a delicious Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup:

Prepare the Chicken

In a grill pan over medium heat, cook the seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Let them rest before dicing.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine Broth and Cream

Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the garlic and bring it to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.

Add Chicken and Lettuce

Stir in the diced chicken and romaine lettuce, cooking just until the lettuce wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Your Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try roasting your croutons with garlic and herbs before adding them to the soup. This will enhance the taste and create a lovely aroma.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain the best texture, consider storing the croutons separately and adding them just before serving. Reheating the soup is easy; simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture intact.

For longer storage, this soup can be frozen for up to a month. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s enough headspace for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove as mentioned. Note that the lettuce will lose its crunch after freezing, but you can always freshen it up by adding a few more leaves upon serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Grilled Chicken Caesar Soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the presentation by garnishing with extra croutons, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or even a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a complete meal, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.

For a fun twist, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch. Not only does it look impressive, but the bread absorbs the flavors, making each bite even more delicious. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce calories or carbs, you can substitute grilled chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu, ensuring your guests have options without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken will save you time and still deliver great flavor.

→ Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just add croutons before serving to keep them crunchy.

→ Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

→ What can I bake the croutons in?

You can bake croutons in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.