Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines the tangy, garlicky flavor of Caesar dressing with tender, juicy chicken. The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a rich and savory touch that makes this dish extra indulgent. Here’s how to make it:
Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the chicken breasts, spreading it evenly. Make sure the chicken is coated well with the dressing.
3. Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be tender and cooked through.
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Lower the heat and add the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add the Sauce to the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the top of the chicken breasts.
- If you like, you can return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce meld with the chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
- Serve the Baked Caesar Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips:
- Make it Crispy: For an added crispy texture, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side before baking them. This will give the chicken a golden crust before baking.
- Extra Flavor: If you like extra tang, sprinkle a little more Parmesan cheese on top before baking, or add a few splashes of lemon juice to the creamy sauce for a zesty kick.
- Side Dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with a Caesar salad or roasted potatoes to complement the creamy flavors.
This Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion! 🍗🧄🧀