why make this recipe
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and easy dish that combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad with juicy chicken. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a rich taste that elevates the chicken, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, meaning you won’t spend hours in the kitchen.
how to make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub the chicken with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- (Optional) In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme.
- Place the chicken in a greased baking dish and pour the Parmesan sauce evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes for a lightly browned top.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.
how to serve Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For added flavor, you might want to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
how to store Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat the chicken in the oven or the microwave until it is warmed through.
tips to make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it brown better.
- If you want more flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Adding extra garlic or using different herbs can give you a new twist on this dish.
variation
You can also add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the baking dish for a more complete meal. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add a lot of veggies.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe! Just ensure they are cooked to the right internal temperature.
2. Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
No, searing is optional. It adds a bit of color and flavor, but you can skip it to save time.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Just be aware that the texture of the sauce may change slightly after thawing.
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub the chicken with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- (Optional) In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme.
- Place the chicken in a greased baking dish and pour the Parmesan sauce evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes for a lightly browned top.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.