Spicy Chicken Caesar Salad

Ingredients:

For the Spicy Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2-3 tbsp water (to thin the yogurt)

• 1 tsp hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot or Tabasco)

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Breading:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free if needed)

• 1/2 cup almond flour (or regular flour)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Olive oil spray

• Buffalo Sauce

For the Caesar Salad:

• 1 bunch chopped romaine lettuce

• 2 tbs freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbs cup light Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, water, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

   • Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

2. Prepare the Coating:

   • In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, almond flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

3. Bread the Nuggets:

   • Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess yogurt drip off.

   • Coat each chicken cube in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside on a plate or tray.

4. Air Fry the Nuggets:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.

   • Arrange the nuggets in a single layer, leaving space between them. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.

   • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Oven Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Assemble the Caesar Salad:

   • In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine with the light Caesar dressing.

   • Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the crispy spicy chicken nuggets.

   • Plate and serve with a wedge of lemon and drizzle of buffalo sauce on the chicken.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Plate your spicy chicken Caesar salad and enjoy immediately while the nuggets are still warm and crispy.