Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
๐ Description:
This Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken is a simple yet flavor-packed dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy Caesar-Parmesan sauce, then baked to golden perfection. The combination of tangy Caesar dressing and rich Parmesan cheese creates a decadent, savory topping that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
๐ Ingredients for Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup Caesar salad dressing (preferably creamy, high-quality)
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ยฝ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
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ยพ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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ยฝ tsp black pepper
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Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish
๐ฉโ๐ณ Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Lightly grease a baking dish.
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Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with garlic powder and black pepper.
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Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), and half of the Parmesan cheese.
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Coat the chicken: Place chicken breasts in the baking dish and spoon the sauce evenly over the top.
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Add cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
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Bake: Bake uncovered for 25โ30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) and is golden and bubbly on top.
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Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives.
๐ก Notes:
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Use full-fat Caesar dressing for the best flavor and texture.
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You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
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Donโt overbakeโuse a thermometer for juicy results.
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This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
๐ฅ Tips:
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Add crunch: Top with a handful of crushed croutons in the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Make it ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and store covered in the fridge.
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Flavor boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
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Leftovers: Great in wraps, sandwiches, or diced on salad the next day.
๐ฝ๏ธ Servings:
Serves 4
Double the recipe for a family-size batch or meal prep.
๐งช Nutritional Info (Per Serving โ Approximate):
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Calories: 360
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Protein: 36g
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Fat: 23g
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Carbohydrates: 3g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 710mg
โ Benefits:
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High in protein for muscle repair and satiety.
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Low-carb, making it great for keto or low-carb diets.
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Quick and easyโjust a few pantry ingredients.
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Kid-friendly and customizable.
โQ&A:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work greatโjust reduce the baking time slightly.
Q: Can I freeze this?
A: Itโs best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it after baking. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
Q: Is store-bought Caesar dressing okay?
A: Absolutely, but choose a thick and creamy one for best results. Homemade Caesar also works great.
Q: What sides go best with this dish?
A: Garlic mashed potatoes, sautรฉed green beans, or a Caesar salad complete the meal beautifully.