This Baked Caesar Chicken is a deliciously creamy, tangy, and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe brings all the rich flavors of Caesar dressing into a baked chicken dish that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and bake time, it’s an effortless meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why This Baked Caesar Chicken Will Be a Family Favorite
- Creamy & Tangy Flavor: Caesar dressing infuses the chicken with a creamy, tangy richness that’s utterly satisfying.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and uses pantry staples.
- Perfectly Juicy: Baking the chicken with the Caesar dressing and Parmesan keeps it tender and flavorful.
- Versatile & Customizable: You can easily add fresh herbs or extra Parmesan for added flavor, making this dish easy to customize.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 680g or 1.5 lbs)
- 180ml (3/4 cup) Caesar dressing
- 120g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish, and season them with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Caesar dressing and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until well-mixed.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread the Caesar dressing mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure they’re fully covered.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of the coated chicken breasts for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt mixed with a little lemon juice can be used as a lighter alternative to Caesar dressing if desired.
- Cheese Options: For a stronger cheese flavor, try using Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a side of mashed potatoes.
FAQ
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken may require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prep the chicken with the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I use low-fat Caesar dressing?
A: Yes, low-fat Caesar dressing will work, though the flavor may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Tips and Notes
- Broil for Extra Browning: For a crispy, golden top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhances the flavors and adds depth to the creamy sauce.
Delicious Variations for Your Baked Caesar Chicken – Try These Twists!
- Herb-Crusted Caesar Chicken: Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh rosemary to the sauce for an herby twist.
- Mushroom Caesar Chicken: Add a layer of sliced mushrooms under the chicken for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy Caesar sauce.
- Lemon Caesar Chicken: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the Caesar dressing for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing.
- Spinach & Artichoke Caesar Chicken: Add a layer of chopped spinach and artichokes on top of the chicken for a twist on the classic Caesar salad flavors.
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