Description
This Ultimate Caesar Chicken recipe combines juicy, oven-baked chicken breasts coated in creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese, topped with crispy croutons and fresh Parmesan for an irresistible, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup croutons, crushed
- 1/4 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly over the chicken breasts to enhance flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the Caesar dressing over each piece, making sure they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for added richness.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The surface should develop a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- Prepare the Topping: While the chicken bakes, crush the croutons into smaller pieces to create a crunchy topping. Grate fresh Parmesan cheese and chop parsley if using for garnish.
- Finish the Chicken: Remove the partly baked chicken from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the crushed croutons and fresh Parmesan on top of each breast.
- Final Bake: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the croutons turn golden brown and crispy, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Serve: Take the chicken out of the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly coated with Caesar dressing for maximum flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
- If you want a stronger garlic flavor, add more garlic powder or minced fresh garlic to the seasoning.
- For homemade croutons, cut bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder, then bake until golden.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
