Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines juicy baked chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce inspired by classic Caesar dressing. The…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines juicy baked chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce inspired by classic Caesar dressing. The creamy parmesan sauce adds a luscious texture and a savory punch, making the chicken extra moist and delicious. It’s a simple twist on a Caesar salad, but heartier and perfect for dinner.
I love making this dish when I want something easy but that still feels special. The best part is how the creamy parmesan sauce comes together effortlessly while the chicken bakes, so you get all those lovely flavors without a lot of fuss. I usually use store-bought Caesar dressing mixed with some extra cream and cheese, which saves time and tastes great. It’s a go-to recipe when I need a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
My favorite way to serve this meal is alongside some garlic roasted veggies or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. Leftovers reheat well too, making it perfect for lunch the next day. Whenever I make this dish, it always gets comments on how comforting and flavorful the sauce is, so I keep it in my regular rotation. It’s a great way to enjoy that classic Caesar vibe in a new and cozy way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for easy cooking and slicing. If you want juicier meat, try bone-in breasts but adjust bake time accordingly.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, you can try half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour to thicken.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated works too but avoid pre-shredded cheese that often has anti-caking agents.
Caesar dressing: Classic or creamy Caesar dressing brings the signature flavor. If you don’t have dressing, a mix of mayo, lemon juice, anchovy paste, and garlic is a good stand-in.
Garlic and parsley: Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference—don’t skip them! If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried will work but use less.
How Can I Keep the Chicken Juicy and Tender When Baking?
Baking chicken can sometimes dry it out. Here’s how to keep it moist and tender:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so it sears better and develops a tasty crust.
- Sear the breasts on the stove first to lock in juices and get a nice golden color.
- Don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
- Bake chicken in the sauce; the creamy liquid helps keep it moist and adds great flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing to let juices redistribute.
Following these tips will give you juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with the rich parmesan sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing chicken on the stove and then baking it in the same pan for easy cleanup.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the creamy parmesan sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – handy for stirring the sauce and pouring it over the chicken.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs – they stay juicier and add a bit more richness to the dish.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes – they bring a tangy sweetness that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in cooked spinach or chopped kale – boosts the nutrition and adds a nice color contrast.
- Use sharp Asiago or Pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan – for a slightly different, sharper cheese flavor.
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup Caesar dressing (classic or creamy Caesar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so plan for roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick meal that’s great for busy weeknights but delicious enough to enjoy any day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Then, season both sides evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful crust.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown. This step locks in the juices.
3. Mix and Pour the Creamy Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the stove. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Caesar dressing, minced garlic, and half of the parsley. Pour this creamy mixture over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Place the skillet in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and warm.
5. Finish the Sauce and Serve:
Once baked, take the skillet out and add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce. Stir gently so it melts through, making the sauce extra creamy. Sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley on top. Slice the chicken and serve it with the sauce spooned generously over it. For a bright touch, add lemon wedges on the side if you like.
This dish is perfect with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Baked Caesar Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to ensure proper searing and prevent excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Caesar Dressing?
If you don’t have Caesar dressing on hand, you can mix mayonnaise with lemon juice, minced garlic, and a bit of anchovy paste or Worcestershire sauce to replicate the flavor. This creates a similar creamy, tangy base for the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively. Use a dairy-free Caesar dressing as well. The flavor will differ but will remain deliciously creamy.