Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken Caesar

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 375°F. and preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill on high.

   Step 2

   In a shallow dish, combine 1 tablespoon of the chili powder (a palmful), the cumin, 2 tablespoons of the EVOO, and some salt. Add the chicken cutlets and coat in the seasoning. Transfer the cutlets to the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Remove from the grill and slice into very thin strips.

   Step 3

   While the chicken is grilling, rub the inside of a salad bowl with the cracked clove of garlic. Set aside. Then, place the cubed bread in a clean bowl with the garlic clove and drizzle about 3 tablespoons of the EVOO and the remaining tablespoon of chili powder over the cubed bread. Toss with about 1/2 cup of the grated Parmigiano and toss to coat thoroughly. Spread the croutons evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until crisp and golden, 10 to 15 minutes.

   Step 4

   To make the dressing, place the remaining 1/4 cup of EVOO in a small pan with the anchovies, red pepper flakes, and the finely chopped garlic. Stir together over very low heat until the anchovies melt. Remove from the heat and cool.

   Step 5

   To prepare the avocado, cut all around the circumference of the ripe avocado, lengthwise and down to the pit. Twist and separate the halved fruit. Remove the pit with a spoon, then scoop the flesh out in one piece from both halves and cut into bite-size pieces.

   Step 6

   In the bottom of the reserved salad bowl, combine the lime zest and juice, mustard, Worcestershire, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the cooled EVOO with anchovies and garlic. Add the romaine to the bowl, followed by the croutons, avocado, and the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmigiano. Toss the salad to coat, adjust the salt and pepper, and pile the salad onto plates. Top with sliced chicken.