Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Introduction

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. The Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce has quickly become a family favorite in our home. This dish brings together the rich flavors of Caesar dressing, tangy sour cream, and cheesy Parmesan, creating a creamy sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken breasts. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part? It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy evening. My kids love it, my partner raves about it, and I appreciate how quickly it comes together. Whether served with a side salad or roasted vegetables, this recipe is a sure hit at the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Coat the Chicken: Spread the creamy sauce evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are well-coated.
5. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be bubbly, and the chicken should have a golden crust.
6. Let it Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color (optional) and serve with your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 360
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 950mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• On a Plate: Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of the creamy sauce drizzled on top.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
• With Sides: Pair with sides like:
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• A light salad
• As a Wrap: Use leftover chicken in a wrap with lettuce and extra Caesar dressing for a quick lunch.

Additional Tips

1. Choosing Chicken Breasts: For best results, select chicken breasts that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain its juices, making it even more tender.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
4. Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to the sauce to suit your taste—Italian seasoning works great!
5. Use Low-Fat Options: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat Caesar dressing and sour cream.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor.
• Veggie Option: Substitute chicken with thick slices of zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian alternative.
• Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella or feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
• One-Pan Meal: Add vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus around the chicken in the baking dish for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Family Dinner: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or quinoa for a comforting family meal.
• Potluck or Gathering: Perfect for serving at potlucks or family gatherings—just double the recipe!
• Lunch Prep: Use leftovers in salads or wraps for an easy lunch option the next day.
• With Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement the flavors of the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use skin-on chicken?

• Yes, you can, but the cooking time may vary slightly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

1. What can I use instead of sour cream?

• Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as a substitute for sour cream.

1. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

• Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and makes for easy reheating.

1. Can I cook this on the grill?

• While this recipe is designed for baking, you can grill the chicken after coating it with the sauce, ensuring it’s well-marinated.

1. What type of Caesar dressing works best?

• Any brand of Caesar dressing will work, but homemade dressing can enhance the flavor even more.

1. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

• Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the baking dish for a complete meal.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

• You can try using dairy-free substitutes for the sour cream and cheese, but the flavor may change.

1. What sides pair well with this dish?

• Consider serving with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Caesar dressing, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is a fantastic addition to any dinner rotation. With its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re serving it with sides or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is a winner that will leave your family asking for seconds. Try it out for your next dinner and enjoy the delicious flavors of this easy, comforting meal!

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