Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce – A Rich and Flavorful Meal
Baked Caesar Chicken with a creamy Parmesan sauce is a simple yet indulgent dish. The chicken breasts are baked to perfection in a creamy, tangy Caesar sauce that’s rich with the flavor of Parmesan and topped with mozzarella for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. This is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
This dish combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad dressing with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, turning simple chicken breasts into a delicious and elevated dinner. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, while the sauce adds a tangy, cheesy depth. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors.
- Creamy & Cheesy: The Caesar dressing and Parmesan create a velvety, rich sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and a simple bake, this dish comes together in no time.
- Full of Flavor: Garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning deliver bold, savory flavors.
- Customizable: Add extra mozzarella or fresh parsley to make the dish your own.
Ingredients for Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven (Time: 2 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare the Sauce (Time: 3 minutes)
In a medium bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and well-mixed. - Prepare the Chicken (Time: 3 minutes)
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy Caesar sauce over the chicken, ensuring the breasts are evenly coated. - Bake the Chicken (Time: 25-30 minutes)
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want a golden, bubbly top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. - Add Mozzarella (Optional) (Time: 1 minute)
If you’re using shredded mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return the dish to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish & Serve (Time: 1 minute)
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (varies depending on specific ingredients used)
Tips for the Best Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider cutting them in half horizontally to ensure they cook evenly and more quickly.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
FAQ About Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the sauce and coat the chicken in it ahead of time, then bake it when you’re ready. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace sour cream with a dairy-free option like cashew cream or coconut cream.
Final Thoughts:
Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet luxurious meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender, juicy chicken. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you loved this Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Enjoy!
