Kale Caesar Salad with Egg & Air-Fried Chickpeas

A hearty kale Caesar with eggs, crispy air-fried chickpeas, and creamy yogurt dressing—perfect for meal prep or a protein-packed lunch.

There’s something timeless about a Caesar salad. That creamy dressing, the salty bite of Parmesan cheese, and the satisfying crunch of croutons—it’s no wonder it’s a favorite salad for so many. But this Kale Caesar Salad with Egg & Air-Fried Chickpeas puts a nourishing spin on the traditional Caesar salad. By using dark leafy kale instead of romaine lettuce, protein-packed eggs, and crispy chickpeas in place of the croutons, this dish becomes a heartier, more nutrient-rich option that’s just as satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a new lunch rotation or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this hearty kale salad is both versatile and crave-worthy. The creamy Caesar dressing—made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese—clings beautifully to tender kale leaves, while the air fryer transforms chickpeas into golden, crunchy bites that rival any crouton. This great recipe makes healthy eating easy, delicious, and ideal for meal prep.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich Upgrade: Using raw kale instead of romaine adds fiber, antioxidants, and a longer shelf life—perfect for meal prep.
• Crunchy Chickpeas: Air-fried chickpeas offer the crunch of croutons with added protein and fiber, making them the perfect chickpea croutons.
• Creamy Caesar Dressing: A homemade Caesar dressing made with simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice delivers that familiar tang without anchovies or heavy cream.
• Customizable: Add chicken breast for extra protein or keep it vegetarian—either way, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Easy to Store: Everything, from the dressing to the chickpeas, can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for quick assembly during the week.

---

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this kale Caesar salad recipe:

Salad:

• 1 bunch dark leafy kale – Stems removed and leaves chopped; a sturdy green perfect for holding creamy Caesar dressing.
• 4 boiled eggs – Peeled and halved or quartered; packed with protein and richness.
• 1/2 cup crispy chickpeas – These crunchy chickpeas are air-fried to perfection and act as a stand-in for croutons.
• Parmesan cheese & croutons (optional) – For extra indulgence and texture.
• Cooked noodles (optional)- For texture and heartiness.

Crispy Chickpeas:

• 1 can chickpeas – Drained, rinsed, and patted dry for optimal crisping.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Just a bit of olive oil helps the chickpeas become crispy and golden.
• Kosher salt and black pepper – Classic seasonings that let the flavor shine.

Creamy Caesar Dressing:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt & 1/4 cup mayonnaise – A creamy, tangy base with a protein boost.
• 1 clove garlic – Finely minced or grated for a strong garlicky kick.
• 2 tbsp lemon juice – Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
• 1–2 tsp Dijon mustard – Adjust to taste for a sharp, tangy depth.
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Use fresh Parmesan if possible.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Adds subtle warmth and color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – To round out the flavors.
• Water (optional) – Thin the dressing if needed.

---

How to Make the Recipe

• Air Fry the Chickpeas
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
  • Toss rinsed and dried chickpeas with a bit of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  • Spread in an even layer and air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through. The chickpeas should be crispy and golden.
  • Let them cool on a baking sheet to maintain crispiness.
• Boil the Eggs
  • Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 9 minutes.
  • Transfer to an ice bath. Once cool, peel and slice.
• Prepare the Kale
  • Place chopped raw kale in a large mixing bowl.
  • Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and massage the leaves with your hands for 1–2 minutes until the kale softens and turns a deeper green.
• Make the Dressing
  • In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Parmesan, and smoked paprika.
  • Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Add water to thin the consistency if needed.
    

• Assemble the Salad
  • Toss the massaged kale with enough homemade Caesar dressing to coat evenly.
  • Top with boiled eggs, crispy chickpeas (aka your chickpea croutons), and additional Parmesan or croutons if desired.

---

How to Store the Recipe

• Dressing: Store the creamy Caesar dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before using.
• Chickpeas: Keep air-fried chickpeas in a container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, store separately from the salad.
• Kale Base: The massaged kale holds up well in the fridge, making this a perfect meal prep salad base for up to 3–4 days.
• Eggs: Store boiled eggs in the fridge, peeled or unpeeled, in a container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

---

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dry Chickpeas Thoroughly: The crispier you want them, the drier they should be before hitting the air fryer.
• Massage the Kale: This step breaks down the tough fibers in kale, making it tender and more enjoyable to eat.
• Customize It: Add chicken breast for extra protein, or serve it as a side dish with grilled meats.
• Roast Instead: No air fryer? Roast the chickpeas on a baking sheet at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Dressing Control: Taste the dressing ingredients as you go—add more garlic, Dijon mustard, or lemon juice to your liking.
• Prepare your Eggs in the Air Fryer: check out my guide here.

This Kale Caesar Salad with Egg & Air-Fried Chickpeas is the perfect mash-up of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, prepping it for the week, or serving it as a refreshing side dish, it’s bound to become a favorite salad in your rotation. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a little crunch, this caesar salad recipe proves that eating healthy can still feel indulgent.

---

FAQs

More Air Fryer Recipes