Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Juicy chicken breasts are baked in a rich, flavorful sauce that tastes like Caesar salad in every bite. It’s an easy, elegant meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Step 2: Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Step 3: (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. This adds extra flavor but can be skipped.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme until smooth and well combined.
5. Step 5: Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Pour the Parmesan sauce evenly over the top of the chicken.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown lightly.
7. Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce spooned over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• For a bit of crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the sauce before baking and remove the foil to toast them in the last few minutes.
• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor rather than bottled.
• Add a handful of cooked spinach or steamed broccoli for a balanced, colorful plate.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich and thick.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. For best texture, avoid overheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook through, so bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which may take about 35-40 minutes.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

No, searing is optional. It adds flavor and color, but you can skip this step and bake the chicken directly in the sauce for a more hands-off approach.

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 130 reviews

This Baked Caesar Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts baked in a creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic, mustard, and herbs. Perfectly seasoned and finished with fresh parsley, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs well with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 3 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika

Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each piece evenly with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavorful crust.
3. Optional Sear: For extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn lightly golden. This step can be skipped if desired.
4. Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble for Baking: Place the prepared chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the sauce and chicken to develop a lightly browned and slightly crisp top.
8. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Slice and serve drizzled with the creamy sauce and garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, searing the chicken breasts before baking is recommended but optional.
• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Caesar salad.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Baked Caesar Chicken, Creamy Parmesan Chicken, Oven-baked chicken breast, Parmesan sauce chicken, Easy chicken dinner