Baked Caesar Chicken
Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with tender chicken breasts coated in creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of sour cream. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
2 Servings
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless skinless pieces
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 ½ cups freshly grated, divided
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon freshly ground
- Caesar Salad Dressing: 1 cup store-bought or homemade
- Sour Cream: ½ cup optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×11½-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken
- If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, place them in a resealable plastic bag and use a meat mallet to pound them to a uniform thickness of ¾ to 1 inch. This ensures even cooking.
Season the Chicken
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper over both sides of the chicken breasts. Arrange the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish.
Mix the Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing and sour cream (if using). Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken to create a flavorful crust.
Bake the Chicken
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 150°F (65°C).
Broil for Crispness
- Switch your oven to the broil setting and continue cooking for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown. Be sure to monitor closely to avoid burning.
Rest the Chicken
- Remove the dish from the oven and loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices and enhance its flavor.
Serve
- Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch before serving. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the Caesar dressing and sour cream (if used) are certified gluten-free. Additionally, check that the Parmesan cheese and all other ingredients are free from cross-contamination. This will ensure the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.