Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Welcome to a recipe that brings together the savory charm of Caesar dressing and the irresistible creaminess of Parmesan into one mouthwatering dish. Picture tender, juicy chicken baked to perfection with a luxurious sauce that’s rich, tangy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is all about delivering comfort and flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments of culinary delight. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a hearty weeknight meal, here’s why this dish will soon become your go-to:
Versatile: Perfect as a main course for any dinner occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Made with everyday ingredients that deliver upscale flavor.
Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that brings gourmet taste without the fuss.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or add extra herbs to suit your palate.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both family and guests, balancing rich flavor with comforting textures.
Ingredients in Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Here’s the magic behind this delightful dish—crafted with carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience:
Chicken Breasts
The tender, lean protein that absorbs all the savory goodness.
Caesar Dressing
A zesty blend of garlic, anchovies, and herbs that infuses each bite with classic Caesar flavor.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated to add a rich, nutty, and creamy finish to the sauce.
Heavy Cream
Lends a smooth, velvety texture to the Parmesan sauce.
Olive Oil
Used to sear the chicken and bring out its natural flavors.
Garlic
Adds a fragrant, savory depth that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
Lemon Juice
Brightens the dish with a touch of citrusy freshness.
Salt and Pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to the recommended temperature to ensure even baking and a perfectly cooked chicken.
Season the Chicken
Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and pepper. A little drizzle of lemon juice at this stage adds a burst of brightness.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Place the seasoned chicken in a lightly greased baking dish, creating a sturdy base for the rich sauce to work its magic.
Assemble the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together Caesar dressing, heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Pour and Bake
Evenly drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle. A final squeeze of lemon juice over the top can elevate the taste even further.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Baked Caesar Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy the perfect blend of tender chicken and luxurious, creamy sauce in every bite.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
Notes: These figures are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. Serve it alongside garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prepping—simply reheat a serving for a quick, satisfying lunch that tastes just as delicious.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of lemon juice and olive oil for 30 minutes before seasoning.
- If you like a thicker sauce, simmer the Parmesan mixture on the stovetop for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.
- Experiment with adding chopped fresh parsley or basil as a garnish for a burst of color and freshness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Customize the sauce by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
FAQ’s
1. What makes this Baked Caesar Chicken dish unique?
It combines classic Caesar flavors with a creamy Parmesan sauce, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and extra juiciness—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. How do I ensure the sauce is creamy and smooth?
Be sure to whisk the Caesar dressing, cream, and Parmesan together until completely combined, and consider a brief simmer if you prefer a thicker sauce.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it makes great leftovers that can be stored in an airtight container and reheated for a quick, satisfying meal.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance; just give it a quick stir before pouring it over the chicken when you’re ready to bake.
6. What side dishes work best with this chicken?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, steamed vegetables, or even a light pasta salad are all excellent choices.
7. Can I adjust the seasoning in the sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to tweak the amount of garlic, lemon juice, or Parmesan to match your taste preferences.
8. Is it necessary to preheat the oven?
Yes, preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the sauce develops a beautiful, golden finish.
9. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked.
10. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes can make the dish even more nutritious and flavorful.
CONCLUSION
Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold, comforting flavors that bring a touch of elegance to everyday dining. With its tender, juicy chicken and luxuriously rich sauce, this dish promises to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
PrintBaked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Tender chicken breasts baked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce infused with classic Caesar flavors. This dish offers a delightful twist on traditional Caesar salad by transforming it into a hearty main course.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
*For the Chicken:*
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
*For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:*
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (optional for a classic Caesar flavor)
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
*For Garnish:*
– Chopped fresh parsley or romaine lettuce
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, anchovies (if using), lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
4. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or romaine lettuce and extra grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
– For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in a little lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
– Adjust anchovy amounts based on your taste preference; they add depth but can be omitted if desired.
– Serve over a bed of steamed vegetables or alongside a crisp salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Sugar: Approximately 3g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 600mg per serving
- Fat: Approximately 22g per serving
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 12g per serving
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 10g per serving
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g per serving
- Fiber: Approximately 1g per serving
- Protein: Approximately 32g per serving
- Cholesterol: Approximately 110mg per serving
