Chicken Caesar Flatbread is a fun twist on the classic Caesar salad, bringing together crispy romaine, tender grilled chicken, and creamy Caesar dressing all on a thin, crispy flatbread crust. It’s like having a salad and a pizza all in one delicious bite, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons for extra texture.
I love making this flatbread when I want something light but still satisfying. It’s quick to throw together, and the combo of flavors always hits the spot. The crispy flatbread holds up nicely under the toppings, so it doesn’t get soggy, which is a total win in my book. Sometimes I’ll add a little extra lemon juice on top for a bright, fresh kick.
My favorite way to enjoy this flatbread is fresh out of the oven, when the cheese is still warm and melty. It’s great for sharing with friends or making a simple weeknight dinner that feels a bit special. Plus, it’s a clever way to switch up your usual Caesar salad routine and bring something new to the table without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flatbread: Using a store-bought flatbread keeps this easy and quick, but homemade or naan bread works well too. Make sure it’s thin enough to get crispy in the oven.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is great here. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut. For a vegetarian twist, try grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Romaine Lettuce: Fresh, crisp romaine adds the classic crunch and a slightly bitter contrast. You can swap in kale or butter lettuce for a milder taste.
Cheeses: Ricotta adds creaminess as a base. Mixing in a little cream cheese can make it smoother. Parmesan brings that signature Caesar tang. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano.
Caesar Dressing: This ties all flavors together. If you want a lighter option, use a yogurt-based Caesar or even a simple lemon vinaigrette.
Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch. Turkey bacon or smoked tempeh make good substitutes for dietary needs.
How Do You Keep the Flatbread Crispy With Fresh Toppings?
Prevent soggy flatbread by using these simple tips:
- Brush olive oil on both sides before baking to create a waterproof barrier and crisp the crust evenly.
- Bake the flatbread first until golden and crispy before adding any toppings.
- Spread ricotta cheese immediately afterward so it melts lightly with the warmth but doesn’t soak in too much moisture.
- Dress the lettuce lightly and add it only after baking. This keeps it fresh and crunchy.
- Serve the flatbread soon after assembling to enjoy the contrast of crispy bread and fresh toppings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven and baking sheet or pizza stone – I recommend using a preheated baking surface to get that crispy crust.
- Brush or spoon – for lightly brushing the flatbread with olive oil before baking.
- Small bowls – to toss and serve the dressed lettuce separately if needed.
- Knife and cutting board – for preparing the chicken, lettuce, and toppings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cooked chicken for grilled shrimp or sliced steak for a meaty twist.
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- Instead of bacon, try crispy pancetta or prosciutto for a different smoky flavor.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to brighten the dish.
Chicken Caesar Flatbread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Flatbread:
- 1 flatbread (store-bought or homemade, about 10-12 inches)
- Olive oil (for brushing)
For The Toppings:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced or chopped
- 1 1/2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon or crispy bacon bits
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or a blend of ricotta and cream cheese for spread)
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon wedge for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 7 minutes to bake the flatbread. You’ll spend just a few minutes assembling the toppings, so overall, you can have this delicious Chicken Caesar Flatbread ready in about 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Toast the Flatbread:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat up. Brush both sides of the flatbread lightly with olive oil. Place the flatbread on the hot baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 5-7 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Prepare the Toppings:
While the flatbread is baking, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing. You want the lettuce just lightly coated to keep it crisp and fresh. Slice or chop your cooked chicken breast if you haven’t already.
3. Assemble the Flatbread:
Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the warm flatbread, creating a creamy base. Next, evenly spread the tossed romaine lettuce on top of the ricotta. Add the cooked chicken pieces over the lettuce. Then, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the flatbread. Finish with some fresh ground black pepper.
4. Serve:
If you like, drizzle a little extra Caesar dressing or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness. Cut the flatbread into slices and serve immediately to enjoy the combination of crispy flatbread and fresh toppings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven and baking sheet or pizza stone
- Brush or spoon for olive oil
- Knife and cutting board
- Bowls for tossing lettuce and holding ingredients
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try grilled shrimp or sliced steak instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Add cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- Substitute pancetta or prosciutto in place of bacon for a new twist on smoky flavors.
- Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an unexpected burst of freshness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker method. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture on the flatbread.
Can I Prepare the Flatbread Ahead of Time?
You can bake the flatbread in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a day. Add the ricotta, lettuce, chicken, and other toppings right before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To enjoy again, reheat the plain flatbread lightly in the oven until crispy, then add fresh toppings to maintain their texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cream cheese or a mild goat cheese can work well as a creamy base. Just spread it thinly to avoid overwhelming the flatbread.
