Baked Caesar Chicken is a rich and comforting dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy Caesar dressing and savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and satisfying recipe perfect for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights, delivering deep flavor with minimal prep. Each bite offers a nostalgic, homemade taste that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup Caesar dressing
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1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
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Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to about 1-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Caesar dressing and sour cream (if using).
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Assemble the Dish: Place chicken in the baking dish. Top each piece with about 1/4 cup of Parmesan. Pour the Caesar dressing mixture evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the rest of the Parmesan on top.
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Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The cheese should form a golden, crispy crust.
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Serve: Let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with roasted veggies, a crisp salad, or garlic bread.
Nutrients
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Servings: 4
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Calories per serving: 450 kcal
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Cuisine: American
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Course: Main Course
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Total Time: 30 minutes (Prep: 5 min / Cook: 25 min)
Creamy Caesar Dressing Takes Center Stage
The key flavor booster in this recipe is the Caesar dressing, which forms the base of the rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken. Known for its tangy, garlicky flavor with anchovy and lemon notes, Caesar dressing adds instant depth and complexity. When baked, the dressing thickens into a luscious coating that infuses the chicken with moisture and flavor. Whether you use a store-bought version or homemade dressing, it becomes the hero of this dish—bold, savory, and comforting.
Parmesan Cheese Adds a Golden Crust and Nutty Depth
One of the standout features of Baked Caesar Chicken is the layer of grated Parmesan cheese that bakes into a bubbling, golden crust on top. As the cheese melts and crisps in the oven, it forms a flavorful seal that locks in the juiciness of the chicken. Parmesan brings a naturally salty, nutty taste that complements the creamy Caesar dressing beautifully. This cheesy top layer not only adds flavor but also a delightful texture contrast that makes each bite more satisfying.
Juicy Chicken Breasts Cooked to Perfection
Chicken breasts can sometimes be dry or bland if not cooked properly, but this recipe ensures they stay tender and juicy. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness allows it to cook evenly, while the creamy dressing acts as a moisture-locking barrier during baking. The sauce seeps into the chicken as it bakes, resulting in meat that’s flavorful from the inside out. Each slice is soft, fork-tender, and brimming with Caesar-inspired richness.
Quick Prep, Big Payoff
One of the best aspects of Baked Caesar Chicken is how little prep it requires. In just a few minutes, you can have the dish assembled and ready for the oven. It’s a one-dish wonder that doesn’t require searing, sautéing, or any stovetop work. Simply season, layer, and bake—and you’ll be rewarded with a hearty, delicious main course that tastes like it took hours. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or low-effort weekend meals when you want something cozy without a lot of cleanup.
Easy to Make Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly
This dish is also great for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble the chicken in the baking dish earlier in the day, cover it with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It also holds up well as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep. Pack it into containers with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got satisfying lunches ready to go. The creamy sauce keeps the chicken moist even after reheating, so it tastes just as good the next day.
Great with a Variety of Sides
Baked Caesar Chicken is a versatile main course that pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides. For a hearty meal, serve it with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or pasta. If you prefer a lighter plate, pair it with a green salad, roasted broccoli, or grilled asparagus. The creamy Caesar flavor complements fresh, crisp vegetables just as well as it does carb-rich comfort foods. Its adaptability makes it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly
This recipe is a hit with both adults and kids. The creamy texture and cheesy topping appeal to younger eaters, while the depth of flavor satisfies more grown-up palates. Since it’s not overly spicy or exotic, it’s great for picky eaters or those who prefer classic flavors. You can also adjust the richness by using a lighter Caesar dressing or incorporating a little sour cream for extra creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
Customizable to Suit Your Style
Baked Caesar Chicken is incredibly easy to adapt to your taste. Want more richness? Add sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce. Prefer a spicier version? Mix in some crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce. For a sharper bite, choose aged Parmesan or add grated Asiago to the cheese mix. You can also top the finished dish with crispy breadcrumbs or fresh herbs for extra texture and color. The recipe is forgiving and flexible, making it easy to turn into your signature comfort meal.
An Impressive Dish That Feels Effortless
Although it’s easy to prepare, Baked Caesar Chicken looks and tastes like a dish worthy of guests. The bubbling, golden cheese and creamy sauce make for a visually appealing presentation that feels elevated without requiring advanced cooking skills. It’s the kind of dish that impresses at the dinner table but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this chicken will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Conclusion
Baked Caesar Chicken is the perfect fusion of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With juicy chicken breasts smothered in creamy Caesar dressing and crowned with golden Parmesan cheese, it delivers satisfying flavor with minimal fuss. This dish is ideal for busy nights, meal prepping, or serving as a cozy centerpiece at a family dinner. It’s easy to customize, kid-approved, and guaranteed to become a repeat recipe in your household. Whether served with pasta, veggies, or a crisp salad, Baked Caesar Chicken brings bold taste and warm comfort to every bite. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it.