This Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken is a quick and delicious dinner that’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this chicken is baked to perfection and covered in a creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese mixture that makes each bite tender, juicy, and irresistible. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or whenever you want a simple yet mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing (use your favorite brand)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Caesar mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure they’re fully coated. Use the back of a spoon to spread the mixture across the chicken for even coverage.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The Caesar mixture will create a delicious golden crust on top of the chicken as it bakes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Sour Cream: The sour cream is optional but adds an extra layer of creaminess to the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the sour cream and just use Caesar dressing.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best in this recipe, but you can use pre-grated or shredded Parmesan for convenience.
Variations
1. Baked Caesar Chicken Thighs
Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer version of this recipe. The thighs may take a bit longer to cook (around 35-40 minutes), but the result will be just as delicious.
2. Keto Caesar Chicken
For a keto-friendly version, make sure to use a sugar-free Caesar dressing and check the ingredients on your Parmesan cheese to ensure it’s low-carb. Pair with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh Caesar salad.
3. Cheesy Caesar Chicken
For an extra cheesy twist, add a layer of mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of the Caesar mixture before baking. This will create a bubbly, cheesy topping that complements the flavors perfectly.
4. Grilled Caesar Chicken
Marinate the chicken in the Caesar dressing mixture for a few hours, then grill the chicken breasts for a smoky flavor. This variation works great for summer cookouts.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
This Caesar Chicken is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for keto or low-carb diets. Ensure that the Caesar dressing you use is low in sugar and carbs. Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables, zucchini noodles, or a Caesar salad with low-carb croutons to complete your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. You may need to increase the baking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through, but they will still come out tender and flavorful.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply coat the chicken in the Caesar mixture, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, just pop the dish in the oven as directed.
Q: Can I use homemade Caesar dressing?
Absolutely! If you have a homemade Caesar dressing recipe you love, feel free to use that in place of the store-bought version for a more personalized touch.
This Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken is a simple yet delicious dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something creamy and flavorful. The combination of Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s savory, tangy, and sure to please the whole family. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is easy to throw together and always a hit at the dinner table.
