Description
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a light, nutritious, and delicious meal featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts and vibrant asparagus spears coated in a creamy Caesar-inspired dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish balances lean protein and fresh vegetables with fresh parmesan and a splash of lemon juice, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when you want something simple yet elegant.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Dressing and Cheese
- 1/3 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- Extra Parmesan shavings
- Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Trim the ends off the asparagus and either cut the chicken breasts into even pieces or leave them whole based on your preference. Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese, setting all aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until it develops a golden crust and is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the asparagus spears and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Add the minced garlic halfway through sautéing to infuse aromatic flavor while keeping the asparagus tender yet crisp.
- Combine with Dressing: Lower the heat to medium-low, return the chicken to the pan, then pour in the Caesar dressing. Gently stir to coat the chicken and asparagus evenly with the dressing. Add lemon juice for brightness and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the mixture.
- Plate and Serve: Transfer the coated chicken and asparagus to a serving dish. Top with extra parmesan shavings, croutons if desired, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, balanced meal.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and juicier meat.
- Do not overcook the asparagus; keep it slightly crisp to retain nutrients and texture.
- For a fresher flavor, consider making your own Caesar dressing using basic pantry ingredients.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices and remain tender.
- Enhance with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for added aroma and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg