Baked Caesar Chicken

Quick Benefits

Baked Caesar Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of Caesar dressing with the crispy, savory topping of Parmesan and croutons. This dish is a great way to enjoy juicy chicken with a twist, as it’s coated in a creamy dressing and baked to perfection. It’s an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests. With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and a touch of greens, this dish offers a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal.

Essential Ingredients

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.
• ½ cup Caesar salad croutons, crushed: Adds a crunchy texture and enhances the flavor.
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Provides a cheesy, savory topping that melts beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Combines with the croutons and Parmesan to create a crispy, buttery topping.
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (1 ½ to 2 pounds total): The main protein source for the dish.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the chicken.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors of the chicken and the dressing.
• 1 cup creamy Caesar salad dressing: Forms the base of the creamy coating for the chicken.
• ⅓ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the dressing mixture and create a creamy texture.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish, adding color and freshness.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (180°C) and coat a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the crouton topping: In a bowl, combine the crushed Caesar salad croutons, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Toss to mix and set aside.
3. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness with a meat mallet. Sprinkle both sides with black pepper and salt.
4. Assemble the dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, stir together the Caesar salad dressing, sour cream, and flour until smooth. Spoon the dressing mixture over the chicken and turn to coat.
5. Top with croutons: Sprinkle the crouton and Parmesan mixture over the chicken.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Health Benefits

Baked Caesar Chicken offers a satisfying combination of lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the Parmesan cheese and butter. The chicken breast is a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth. While this dish is indulgent due to the creamy Caesar dressing, it provides a balanced meal when paired with vegetables or a light salad on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Caesar Chicken pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus. A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette would balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with some mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa for a more hearty meal. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can pair it with a cauliflower mash or a side of sautéed spinach.

Creative Variations

• Chicken with Veggies: Add some vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, on top of the chicken before baking to make it a one-pan meal.
• Spicy Caesar Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free croutons or substitute crushed almonds or rice crackers for the crust.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use non-dairy sour cream for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Baked Caesar Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. The chicken can also be sliced and added to salads or wraps for a delicious leftover meal.

Pro Tips

• Pounding the Chicken: Ensuring that the chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook more evenly, preventing the edges from drying out while the center stays undercooked.
• Crouton Texture: If you prefer a more crispy topping, toast the croutons lightly before crushing them for added crunch.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the chicken while baking to avoid overcooking it. The chicken should be just cooked through to remain juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of skinless, boneless breasts?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in breasts will take longer to cook. You’ll want to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble the dish a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if it’s chilled.

What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes great with a side of vegetables, a simple salad, or even a side of mashed potatoes or rice. It can also be paired with a light pasta or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes, store-bought Caesar dressing works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure that it’s a creamy variety for the best texture. If you’re making your own dressing, try adding a touch of garlic or anchovy paste for added flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

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