Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy Caesar sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, adds extra creaminess)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Place the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Spread the Caesar sauce mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Step 4: Bake the chicken, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a golden, bubbly top, optionally broil the chicken for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Step 5: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your choice of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the Caesar dressing for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use homemade Caesar dressing for a fresher taste and to control the ingredients.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt as a healthier creamy alternative.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Serve atop a bed of cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain moisture. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the chicken tender.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and often stay juicier. Adjust the baking time to about 30–35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Is it necessary to add sour cream?
No, sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can omit it or substitute with Greek yogurt.
PrintMelt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe
A delicious and creamy Caesar Chicken recipe that delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection with a savory Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese topping. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dinner served alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Caesar Sauce Mixture
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, adds extra creaminess)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Caesar sauce mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and form a creamy sauce.
- Coat the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Evenly spread the Caesar sauce mixture over each chicken breast, coating them thoroughly to maximize flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Bake the assembled dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Optional broiling for topping: For a beautifully golden and bubbly top, switch your oven to the broil setting and broil the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside your choice of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as well.
- Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess; you can omit it if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked to food safety standards.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a delicious golden crust to the cheese topping.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Keywords: Caesar chicken, baked chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, Parmesan chicken, easy dinner
