Baked Caesar Chicken
Baked Caesar Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the classic tastes of Caesar salad with tender, juicy chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Why Try Baked Caesar Chicken?
If you’re looking for a tasty way to elevate your chicken dinner routine, this recipe is a must-try. It combines the creamy richness of Caesar salad dressing with crispy croutons and savory Parmesan cheese, resulting in a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, making it a healthier alternative to fried chicken dishes.
Ingredients Summary
- Cooking spray
- 1/2 cup crushed Caesar salad croutons
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup creamy Caesar salad dressing
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Serving Suggestions
Baked Caesar Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. You can also slice the chicken and use it to top a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
Storage Information
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through.
Techniques and Tips
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Be sure to coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the Caesar dressing mixture for maximum flavor.
- Garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional seasonings, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning, to the crouton mixture for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Asiago, for a unique twist.
FAQs about Baked Caesar Chicken
Q: Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing for this recipe? A: Yes, store-bought Caesar dressing works well in this recipe. However, if you prefer a homemade dressing, you can easily make one using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: While bone-in chicken can be used, it may require a longer cooking time. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to step 8, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Baked Caesar Chicken
Equipment
- - 2-quart baking dish
- - Meat mallet
- - Small bowl
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1/2 cup Caesar salad croutons crushed
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
- 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts (1 1/2 to 2 pounds total)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup creamy Caesar salad dressing
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Chopped fresh parsley to taste for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (180 degrees C). Coat a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Combine crushed croutons, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a bowl; toss to mix. Set aside.
- Place chicken breasts between 2 sheets of plastic wrap. Pound to an even thickness with a meat mallet.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with pepper and salt. Place the chicken into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, stir together the Caesar salad dressing, sour cream, and flour until well combined.
- Spoon the salad dressing mixture over the chicken, turning to coat each piece evenly.
- Top the chicken with the crouton mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the topping is browned and the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 25 to 30 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
