When you’re in the mood for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce checks all the boxes. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in under an hour. Rich, creamy, and full of bold Caesar flavor, it’s a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
This recipe combines the tangy zing of Caesar dressing, the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese, and the tenderness of oven-baked chicken into a foolproof main course that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking for a new dinner rotation hero, this dish is sure to become a staple.
What Makes Caesar Chicken So Irresistible?
While Caesar salad may be a familiar favorite, using its signature dressing as a marinade and sauce takes chicken to a whole new level. The dressing—usually a mix of garlic, anchovy, lemon, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan—adds depth and complexity. Baked with a creamy Parmesan topping, the result is juicy chicken breasts with a golden, cheesy crust and a tangy, savory interior.
Best of all, this recipe requires just five main ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes of hands-on prep.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing (use a high-quality or homemade version)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, lemon wedges
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30–35 minutes
- Total time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights—simply prep, pop in the oven, and serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, stir together Caesar dressing, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Assemble: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spoon the Caesar-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each breast. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). For a golden, bubbly top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
6. Garnish and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values, based on 4 servings:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 700mg
Note: These values may vary depending on the brand of Caesar dressing and specific ingredients used. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat dressing and yogurt instead of sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken is rich and flavorful, so it pairs well with a variety of simple sides:
- Starches: Serve with buttered noodles, garlic mashed potatoes, or wild rice.
- Veggies: Pair with roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad.
- Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Presentation Tips
Want to serve this dish like a pro?
- Family-Style: Present the whole baking dish at the center of the table for a rustic, inviting meal.
- Individual Plates: Plate each chicken breast with a scoop of sauce, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and add colorful sides for a polished look.
- Color Contrast: Add steamed greens or cherry tomatoes on the side for visual appeal and freshness.
Flavor Variations
Want to customize it? Try these easy twists:
- Add Garlic or Shallots: Sauté and add to the sauce for extra depth.
- Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier, more budget-friendly option.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh chopped basil or thyme into the dressing mixture for a garden-fresh twist.
A Deliciously Simple Comfort Dish
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the kind of recipe that delivers big rewards with minimal effort. It’s bold, hearty, and comforting—everything you want in a weeknight dinner without a sink full of dishes. Whether served with your favorite pasta, seasonal veggies, or a crusty slice of bread, this dish offers a mouthwatering blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory notes in every bite.
So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, skip the takeout and treat yourself to this easy yet impressive dish. One bite of this Caesar-inspired chicken, and you’ll understand why it’s become a modern classic in home kitchens everywhere.