Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’ve been searching for a weeknight dinner that’s quick to whip up but still packed with flavor, look no further than this Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week, craving something indulgent but not time-consuming. What I love most about it is how it transforms a few simple ingredients into a decadent, mouthwatering dish that feels like it came straight from a restaurant.

The combination of Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese brings a tangy richness, while baking the chicken keeps it incredibly juicy. This is one of those go to meals for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just want something comforting after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Let’s dive into the details of how to make this crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Caesar dressing (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

Making this dish is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, satisfying meal:

Step 1:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or oil and set it aside. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish and ensures easy clean-up afterward.

Step 2:

Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. The seasoning helps lock in flavor and enhances the taste of the creamy sauce you’ll be adding later.

Step 3:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. This creamy mixture is where the magic happens – it adds richness and tang, making the chicken irresistible.

Step 4:

Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Pour the Caesar-Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated. You want that creamy goodness to cover every inch of the chicken for maximum flavor!

Step 5:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you like your chicken to have a golden, slightly crisp top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Step 6:

Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color (optional) and serve with your favorite sides.

Variation

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations you can try to cater to different dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• Keto-Friendly: Replace the Caesar dressing with a low-carb or sugar-free version, and swap the sour cream for full-fat Greek yogurt to keep this dish keto-compliant.
• Gluten-Free: Make sure to use a gluten-free Caesar dressing or create your own from scratch with gluten-free ingredients.
• Vegetable Boost: Add some vegetables like broccoli or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish alongside the chicken. The veggies will absorb the sauce and cook perfectly in the oven.
• Spicy Kick: If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the chicken before baking.

Cooking Note:

Here’s a pro tip: if your chicken breasts are on the larger side, consider pounding them to an even thickness before seasoning. This will help them cook more evenly and stay juicy throughout the baking process. Also, don’t be tempted to overbake – once the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C), the chicken is done and perfectly juicy!

Serving Suggestions:

This Baked Caesar Chicken is incredibly versatile, so you can pair it with a variety of sides for a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

• Salads: A crisp, fresh salad with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the chicken.
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach make great side dishes. You can even roast them in the same pan as the chicken for less clean-up.
• Carbs: For a heartier meal, serve this chicken with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a side of garlic bread to soak up all the extra sauce.

Pair it with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, or go with a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.

Tips:

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Prepping Ahead: You can prep the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it an ideal meal for entertaining or busy weeknights.
• Leftovers: Leftover Caesar chicken is fantastic the next day. Slice it up and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or toss it into a salad for a quick lunch.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to retain moisture.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information:

For those watching their calorie intake, here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 38 g
• Sodium: 950 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that they may take slightly longer to cook, so adjust your baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Yes! Use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or a cashew-based cream.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: While you can freeze the baked chicken, the creamy sauce may separate when thawed and reheated. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Q: How do I make homemade Caesar dressing?

A: Making your own Caesar dressing is easy! Combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and anchovy paste for a tangy, homemade version.

Let’s talk about Parmesan cheese  it’s one of the star ingredients in this dish. Not only does it add a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce, but it also creates a rich, creamy texture when melted. Parmesan is naturally low in lactose, making it a good option for those with slight dairy sensitivities. It’s also packed with protein and calcium, giving this dish an extra nutritional boost.

Readers who’ve tried this recipe rave about how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out every time. One reader shared, “I made this for a dinner party, and everyone thought I spent hours in the kitchen! It’s so flavorful and creamy, yet so simple to prepare.”

Another reader mentioned, “This recipe is a new family favorite. The kids love the sauce, and I love how quickly it comes together!”

Conclusion:

This Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress dinner guests, this dish will never disappoint.

Make sure to try it out and let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below. And while you’re here, don’t forget to explore our other delicious, easy to make recipes!

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