If you love the classic flavors of Caesar salad but want a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, this Caesar Chicken Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Juicy, tender chicken breasts baked with creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese create a luscious, flavorful dish that feels fancy but comes together in no time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without the fuss, and the simplicity of the ingredients lets each component shine brilliantly on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients. These are simple staples that combine to create a memorable dish with a beautiful balance of creaminess, tang, and savory richness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether adding moisture, depth of flavor, or a satisfying cheesy finish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes juicy and tender as it bakes.
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing (preferably creamy-style): Provides the signature Caesar flavor and lends a rich, velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps form a golden crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory warmth that blends beautifully with the dressing and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and promotes even cooking.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh pop of color and mild herbal brightness to finish.
How to Make Caesar Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Then, gently pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels — this step helps the dressing adhere better for that delicious coating.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy Caesar salad dressing with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. This mixture is the magic behind the Caesar Chicken Recipe’s bold yet balanced flavor profile.
Step 3: Coat and Bake
Place the chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Caesar dressing mixture over the top of each breast, making sure to coat them completely for maximum flavor infusion. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken to keep everything moist as it bakes. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional)
For that irresistible golden top, turn on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to ensure the cheese and dressing brown beautifully without burning.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish if you’d like.
How to Serve Caesar Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise. A twist of lemon zest also works wonders if you want to brighten each bite with a bit of zing.
Side Dishes
This Caesar Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a simple green salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles to keep the meal low carb but utterly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cooked chicken breast and layering it over a classic Caesar salad for an impressive and low-carb meal. Alternatively, serve it with a side of garlic bread and drizzle any extra pan juices over the top for a restaurant-style finish right at your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Caesar Chicken completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making for delicious next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Caesar Chicken can last up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Using the oven instead of the microwave helps maintain the chicken’s juicy texture and the integrity of the cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan cheese gives that classic nutty and salty flavor essential to this Caesar Chicken Recipe, you could experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper option or even Asiago for a milder twist. Just keep in mind Parmesan melts beautifully and promotes that perfect golden crust.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely. This Caesar Chicken Recipe is naturally low carb since it primarily features protein and fats without any added grains or sugars, making it a great choice for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.
Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of baking?
You sure can! Grill the chicken breasts over medium heat, then spoon on the Caesar dressing and cheese mixture near the end to allow it to warm and melt without burning. Just keep an eye on the timing to prevent flare-ups.
What’s the best Caesar dressing to use?
Choose a creamy-style Caesar dressing with quality ingredients—one that balances garlic, anchovy, and lemon flavors well. Homemade dressings work wonderfully too if you’d like to customize it even more.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Caesar Chicken Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a special treat every time you make it. It’s incredibly straightforward, yet so full of flavor and comforting textures that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a reliable go-to that brings the beloved Caesar salad flavors into a hearty, satisfying meal. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Caesar Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Caesar Chicken recipe features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s an easy, flavorful main course that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad. A simple yet delicious twist on classic Caesar salad flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Caesar Dressing Mixture
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing (preferably creamy-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Caesar dressing mixture: In a small bowl, combine the creamy Caesar salad dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring until well blended.
- Coat chicken: Spoon the Caesar dressing mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Bake chicken: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional broil: For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use a high-quality creamy Caesar dressing to maximize flavor.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
- For a low-carb option, slice the chicken and serve it over a Caesar salad instead of with sides.
