Baked Caesar Chicken is a simple yet delicious dinner dish featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a rich, savory flavor in every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 cup Caesar salad dressing
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the chicken by placing the breasts in a greased baking dish.
Season the chicken with black pepper and garlic powder.
Coat with dressing by spreading Caesar dressing evenly over each piece.
Top with cheese by sprinkling Parmesan generously over the coated chicken.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Nutritional Facts

Calories: 380 per serving
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 680mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g

The Origin of Baked Caesar Chicken

The inspiration for Baked Caesar Chicken comes from the beloved Caesar salad, a dish known for its creamy dressing, Parmesan cheese, and savory flavors. The salad itself dates back to the 1920s when it was created by Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur. Over the years, the signature Caesar dressing has been incorporated into various dishes, leading to the creation of this unique chicken recipe.

By using Caesar dressing as a marinade and coating for chicken breasts, this recipe enhances the meat’s tenderness and infuses it with a rich, garlicky flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami component that complements the dressing, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Caesar Chicken is an excellent choice for home cooks looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Here are some reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Minimal Ingredients – With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious dish without needing a long grocery list.
Effortless Preparation – There’s no need for complicated steps; simply coat the chicken, bake, and enjoy.
Incredibly Flavorful – The tangy, garlicky Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese create a bold taste that satisfies every bite.
Great for Meal Prep – This dish reheats well, making it an excellent option for leftovers or weekly meal planning.
Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy coating on the chicken.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Caesar Chicken

While Baked Caesar Chicken is flavorful enough to stand alone, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Some excellent accompaniments include:

Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots adds a nutritious and colorful side.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs well with the rich Caesar sauce.
Steamed Rice – A simple side of white or brown rice helps balance the flavors.
Caesar Salad – For a complete Caesar experience, serve the chicken alongside a classic Caesar salad with croutons and fresh romaine lettuce.
Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread can be used to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Baked Caesar Chicken is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:

Low-Carb/Keto Version – Use a low-carb Caesar dressing and pair the chicken with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice.
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a bit of heat.
Extra Crunch – Top the chicken with crushed croutons or panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy texture.
Cheese Lovers’ Twist – Mix in mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an even cheesier experience.
Herb Infusion – Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for an aromatic touch.

Tips for Perfect Baked Caesar Chicken

To ensure the best results when making this dish, consider these helpful tips:

Use High-Quality Caesar Dressing – A good-quality dressing will enhance the flavor of the chicken. Look for one with real Parmesan and garlic.
Don’t Overbake – Cooking the chicken until it reaches 165°F (75°C) ensures it remains juicy and tender. Overcooking may result in dry meat.
Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices.
Even Thickness – Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, Baked Caesar Chicken can be easily stored and reheated for another meal.

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece individually to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating – Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

Is Baked Caesar Chicken Healthy?

This dish is relatively healthy, especially if you use a light or homemade Caesar dressing. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, and Parmesan cheese provides calcium and essential nutrients. However, Caesar dressing can be high in fat and sodium, so using a lower-calorie version or making your own dressing can help reduce the calorie content.

For those following a specific diet, such as keto or low-carb, this recipe fits well by offering a high-protein, moderate-fat meal with minimal carbohydrates.

Conclusion

Baked Caesar Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings bold, creamy flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting taste make it a go-to meal for any night of the week. The combination of Parmesan cheese and Caesar dressing creates a rich, savory coating that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.

This dish has gained popularity due to its simplicity and bold taste. With only a handful of ingredients, it transforms an ordinary chicken dinner into something special without the need for complex cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Baked Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a meal-prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. By pairing it with the right sides and experimenting with different variations, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences.

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