Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce: A Simple, Savory Delight 🍗🧀
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts indulgent and effortless, this Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is your new go-to! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, tangy Caesar dressing blended with creamy sour cream and nutty Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with savory, umami-packed flavors, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party centerpiece. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Baked Caesar Chicken is a love letter to simplicity and bold flavors. The Caesar dressing infuses the chicken with its signature tangy, garlicky taste, while the sour cream and Parmesan create a luscious, creamy sauce that bubbles and browns beautifully in the oven. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from roasted veggies to fluffy rice. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned foodie, this recipe is easy to master and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s a fantastic addition to your collection of chicken dinners, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative to dishes like Alice Springs Chicken or Honey Chili Chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds, preferably uniform in size for even cooking)
- 1 ¼ cups high-quality Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade; choose a creamy, garlicky variety for best results)
- ⅔ cup sour cream (full-fat for richness or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor; avoid pre-shredded for better melting)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced, for a bolder kick)
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust based on the saltiness of your Caesar dressing)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for a subtle warmth)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a vibrant garnish)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth
For Optional Topping:
- ½ cup crushed croutons or panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy, Caesar salad-inspired topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (to mix with crumbs for golden crispiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Set the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better sauce adhesion. If the breasts are uneven, pound them to a consistent ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin (place in a resealable bag to avoid mess). Season both sides lightly with kosher salt and black pepper, keeping in mind the saltiness of the Caesar dressing.
Pro Tip: Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and stays tender. If time’s tight, buy pre-pounded cutlets from your butcher.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed (some Caesar dressings are saltier than others). If using fresh garlic or Italian seasoning, stir them in now.
- Reserve Some Sauce: Set aside about ¼ cup of the sauce for serving or drizzling, if desired.
Pro Tip: For a zestier sauce, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the Caesar flavor profile.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Coat the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon or pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over each breast, spreading it evenly to coat. Ensure each piece is generously covered for maximum flavor.
- Optional Crunchy Topping: For a Caesar salad-inspired twist, mix crushed croutons or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the sauced chicken for a golden, crispy topping.
Pro Tip: If adding the breadcrumb topping, press it lightly into the sauce to help it adhere during baking.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly. If using the breadcrumb topping, check that it’s golden and crisp. If not, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. If the sauce is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Pro Tip: Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after baking to lock in juices and make slicing easier.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Finish and Plate: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If reserved, drizzle extra sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this creamy chicken with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes (like the ones in your Garlic Herb Chicken recipe), or a crisp Caesar salad for a fun, thematic meal. For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 400–450 kcal (varies based on dressing and portion size)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Tips for Success
- Choose a Quality Dressing: The Caesar dressing is the star of the show, so opt for a high-quality brand or make your own for the best flavor. Look for one with robust garlic and anchovy notes.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce. For a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the sauce and season the chicken up to a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Caesar dressing and skip the breadcrumb topping or use gluten-free panko.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, creamy dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages to round out the meal:
- Sides: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic bread, or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a nod to your other recipes, try the glazed carrots from the Garlic Herb Chicken recipe for a sweet contrast.
- Grains: Pair with wild rice, quinoa, or buttery orzo for a hearty addition.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a chilled Pinot Grigio, a sparkling water with lemon, or a light iced tea for a refreshing complement.
How It Fits with Your Other Recipes
This Baked Caesar Chicken complements your collection of chicken recipes by offering a creamy, Italian-inspired option that’s distinct yet cohesive:
- Compared to Garlic Herb Chicken: While the Garlic Herb Chicken is lighter and broth-based, this Caesar chicken leans into a richer, creamier profile, making it a great choice for those craving indulgence.
- Compared to Sheet-Pan Honey Chili Chicken: The Caesar chicken is baked in a dish rather than a sheet pan and skips the veggies, focusing on a luscious sauce instead of the sweet-spicy glaze of the Honey Chili recipe.
- Compared to Alice Springs Chicken: Both recipes feature a cheesy, saucy topping, but the Caesar version is simpler, with no bacon or mushrooms, making it a quicker option with a different flavor profile (tangy Caesar vs. honey mustard).
Together, these recipes create a versatile chicken dinner repertoire for your website, catering to a range of tastes and occasions.
Why This Dish Is Perfect for Any Night
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its bold flavors and creamy texture elevate it for special occasions. The familiar Caesar salad-inspired taste appeals to all ages, and the minimal cleanup (just one baking dish!) is a win for home cooks. Whether you’re serving it with classic sides or mixing and matching with your other recipes, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your kitchen with ease. The tender chicken, enveloped in a tangy, cheesy sauce, is pure comfort food magic that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers big on taste and convenience. Share your delicious results with us by tagging #CaesarChicken on social media—we’d love to see your creamy, golden creations! 🍗🧀
