Irresistible Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that makes your heart sing with joy? Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken is one such recipe, where succulent chicken meets a rich, cheesy sauce infused with the vibrant flavors of Caesar dressing. Imagine crispy golden edges and a creamy center that envelops each bite, creating an irresistible combination of textures and tastes.

This delightful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of tangy Parmesan with the savory hints of garlic and herbs creates an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether served alongside fresh vegetables or a crisp salad, Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken promises to be a hit at your table.

Key Ingredients For Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Caesar Dressing: Choose a high-quality brand for authentic flavor; homemade dressing can also elevate this dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce; for a lighter option, you can substitute it with half-and-half.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.

For the Sauce:

• Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme complements the chicken’s flavor perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step : Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This enhances their natural flavor during baking.

Third Step : Make The Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Caesar dressing, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs until well combined.

Fourth Step : Combine Everything

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over them evenly to ensure they are fully coated.

Fifth Step : Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and golden brown on top.

Serve your Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken hot from the oven. Transfer to plates and drizzle some extra sauce over each serving for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese significantly enhance flavor.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Let It Rest: Allow baked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this helps retain juices.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare your Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Next, in the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is covered with the rich sauce.

Transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Your Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken offers a delightful dining experience and pairs perfectly with various sides. Consider these options:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances out the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: Incorporate more Caesar flavors with a fresh salad alongside your main dish.

Storage Tips

For those looking to enjoy Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken later, proper storage is essential. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps maintain flavor and texture when reheating.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can warm up the chicken in a microwave or bake it again at a low temperature until heated through.

Presentation Ideas

This Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for vibrant color and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick that enhances taste.
• Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon on top for added crunch and a smoky flavor contrast.

FAQs

What makes Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken special?

The unique combination of flavors in Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken sets it apart from other dishes. The creamy garlic sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious coating over tender chicken breasts. This recipe melds classic Caesar dressing elements into a comforting baked dish, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor to Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for different textures and tastes. Mixing cheeses can enhance creaminess while providing unique flavor profiles that will surprise your palate.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prepping. Prepare multiple servings at once, store them separately in containers, and reheat throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners. It’s not only easy but also allows you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without spending much time daily.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken ahead of time by marinating the chicken in advance or even baking it earlier in the day. Just ensure it’s stored properly in an airtight container if prepared beforehand. Reheat gently before serving to maintain its creamy goodness and avoid drying out the chicken.

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Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken

• Author: jenny
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Creamy Parmesan Baked Caesar Chicken is a luscious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce infused with the bold flavors of Caesar dressing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe delivers an unforgettable meal with crispy edges and a creamy interior. Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or a crisp salad for a delightful dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Caesar dressing
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp dried Italian herbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Caesar dressing, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and dried herbs until smooth.
4. Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider using homemade Caesar dressing. You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.