Discover the irresistible taste of Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate your dinner experience. This succulent chicken dish combines the classic Caesar salad’s essence with a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite in decadence. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, it brings comfort and sophistication to your table.
Moreover, this oven-baked masterpiece is not only simple to prepare but also appeals to both the palate and the eye. With tender chicken, a delightful blend of Caesar-inspired seasonings, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether served with a side of crisp vegetables or over a bed of pasta, Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a recipe you’ll want to revisit time and again.
Ingredients :
To create a delightful Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein.
– 2 tablespoons olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
– Salt and black pepper, to taste, for seasoning the chicken.
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder for aromatic depth.
– ½ teaspoon paprika, providing a subtle smokiness.
– 1 cup heavy cream for a rich, creamy sauce base.
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely shredded for smooth melting and nutty flavor.
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, adding a tangy note.
– 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning for herbal complexity.
– Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish and add color.
This dish pairs beautifully with side options like Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, which offer a delightful contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce. By using these ingredients, you’ll achieve a comforting yet elegant meal. Begin your culinary adventure today and savor the irresistible flavors!
How to Prepare Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
To create your Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take three boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Coat the chicken with two tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for flavor depth.
Next, prepare the creamy sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together one cup of heavy cream with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and one teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Add half a teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning for an aromatic touch. Mix well until smooth.
Pour the creamy sauce over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Once finished, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a vibrant touch. Enjoy this delicious dish alongside garlic Parmesan focaccia bread for a complete meal! For a similar delightful chicken recipe, check out this creamy Cajun chicken and rice dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
To achieve the most delightful Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, start by ensuring your chicken breasts are of equal size for even cooking. A good brine solution can enhance moisture and flavor, so consider soaking your chicken in a mixture of water and salt for a few hours beforehand. When preparing the creamy parmesan sauce, freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide a rich, authentic taste that outshines pre-packaged options.
While baking, monitor the internal temperature of the chicken closely. It should reach 165°F for safety and best texture. Additionally, let the chicken rest for at least five minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring succulent bites. For an exciting side dish, try pairing it with crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries. For detailed instructions, check out this Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe, which will guide you through the process seamlessly.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
To complement the flavors of Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, consider serving it with a fresh salad. A classic Caesar salad works wonders alongside, enhancing the dish’s theme while adding crisp textures. For a heartier option, serve it over garlic parmesan focaccia bread. This delicious homemade delight not only creates a perfect base but also soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
If you want to add variety, pair it with crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries. These add a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and provide a satisfying crunch. Finally, you can round off the meal with something light yet sweet, like mini lemon tarts. This delightful dessert offers a refreshing finish, keeping the meal balanced. No matter how you choose to serve it, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience with this creamy chicken delight.
Storage Tips for Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
To enjoy your Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce later, proper storage is essential. First, let the dish cool at room temperature for no more than two hours. This prevents bacteria growth. Next, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Ideally, consume the dish within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. Refrigerate the chicken promptly to maintain its quality.
When reheating, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. A quick tip: if you have extra sauce, store it separately to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. Should you be seeking other delectable chicken recipes, consider trying Crockpot Shredded Chicken for an easy and delicious option that complements many dishes. Following these simple storage guidelines will ensure your Baked Caesar Chicken remains flavorful and ready to enjoy later!
Nutritional Information:
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious yet health-conscious choice packed with protein and essential nutrients. Each serving typically contains approximately 350 calories, 30g protein, and 22g fat, making it an excellent option for a satisfying meal. For a side, consider pairing it with crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries for increased fiber and vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delectable dish that combines succulent chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with a velvety and rich creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional Caesar salad, transforming it into a mouthwatering entree.
How can I make the sauce even creamier?
To enhance the creaminess of the sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. This will give it a richer texture and flavor, making each bite more indulgent.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Using chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as thighs might take a bit longer to bake compared to chicken breasts.
What should I serve with Baked Caesar Chicken?
A side of garlic-parmesan focaccia bread pairs beautifully with this dish, allowing you to soak up the creamy sauce. Alternatively, steamed veggies or a fresh salad can complement the rich flavors.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this creamy chicken dish is perfect for meal prepping! Simply portion it into meal containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an easy go-to for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative, and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of the regular cream in the sauce, ensuring you still get a rich flavor. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this flavorful chicken ramen with creamy garlic sauce.
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Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce: A Must-Try!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken breasts: 3 boneless
skinless pieces
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt and black pepper: To taste
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: 0.5 teaspoon
Heavy cream: 1 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese: 0.5 cup
Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: 0.5 teaspoon
Fresh parsley: Chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- In a baking dish, coat the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce by combining heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices for an hour before baking. You can also serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or pasta.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
Keywords: Baked Caesar Chicken, Creamy Parmesan Sauce, Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner
