Baked Caesar Chicken Recipes

 Baked Caesar Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the classic taste of Caesar dressing with tender, juicy chicken breasts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a small gathering, this recipe requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor. With a creamy, tangy coating and a crisp, golden crust, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Coat with Caesar Dressing: In a shallow bowl, pour the Caesar dressing. Dip each chicken breast into the dressing, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.

4. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and olive oil. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and the breadcrumbs are slightly moistened.

5. Top the Chicken: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the coated chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere.

6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crispy. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Variations & Tips

• Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier version, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on them.

• Spicy Caesar Chicken: Add a kick by mixing some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the Caesar dressing before coating the chicken.

• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb alternative, replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. This will give a similar crunch without the carbs.

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and breadcrumb topping ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking.

• Pairings: This chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Baked Caesar Chicken is a simple, yet impressive dish that combines the tangy and savory flavors of Caesar dressing with the satisfying crunch of a breadcrumb topping. It's a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're making dinner for the family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of this easy-to-make meal!