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’s simple to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner.

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).
2. Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them 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 heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth.
5. Step 5: Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and pour the Parmesan sauce evenly over them.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to brown the top slightly.
7. Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve topped with the creamy sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 1–2 minutes after baking instead of just uncovering the foil.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect a slightly less rich texture.
• Add a handful of cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs or even bone-in pieces can be used; just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.