Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce combines the richness of Caesar dressing with the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish thatβs both easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This baked chicken is tender, juicy, and covered in a luscious sauce that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle Caesar dressing over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the Parmesan sauce.
- Make the Parmesan Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and pour the Parmesan sauce over the top of the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dish, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan sauce for a spicy version of this dish.
- Herbaceous Touch: Mix fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the Parmesan sauce for a more aromatic flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for a large portobello mushroom or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: Substitute half of the Parmesan cheese for cream cheese for an even creamier sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
- Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for about 10 minutes to retain the chickenβs juiciness.
10 FAQs
- Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook (approximately 40-45 minutes). Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C). - Can I use homemade Caesar dressing?
Absolutely! Homemade Caesar dressing adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of the dish. - What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp Caesar salad are great sides to complement this dish. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Simply reheat the chicken and sauce before serving. - What other cheeses can I use in the sauce?
You can substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to remain juicier. Bake them for about 30-35 minutes. - How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can add more Parmesan cheese or let the sauce simmer for a longer time to thicken. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Caesar dressing, the entire recipe will be gluten-free. - Can I use low-fat cream for the sauce?
Low-fat cream can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as with regular heavy cream. - Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours in a slow cooker and then top with the Parmesan sauce before serving.
Conclusion
Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is an easy yet elegant dish that will satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and comforting meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and zesty Caesar dressing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.