Introduction

This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet indulgent dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken breasts are baked in a rich, flavorful sauce that combines classic Caesar ingredients with a comforting creaminess.

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them evenly with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth.
Step 5: Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the top.
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 allow the sauce to lightly brown on top.
Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Then slice, serve with the sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of anchovy paste to the Parmesan sauce to emulate classic Caesar dressing notes.
Swap dried thyme for fresh herbs like rosemary or basil depending on your preference.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water into the cream mixture before baking.
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust baking time as needed, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken is optional but recommended. It helps develop flavor and gives a nicer color to the chicken, though the dish will still be delicious without this step.

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 144 reviews

This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious, comforting dish featuring tender baked chicken breasts smothered in a rich and flavorful Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe combines classic Caesar flavors with a creamy twist that elevates simple ingredients into a satisfying meal.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 3 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika

Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them evenly with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to build flavor.
Optional Searing: For added color and flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn lightly golden. This step is optional but recommended.
Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined.
Assemble for Baking: Place the seasoned (and optionally seared) chicken breasts into a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken to ensure they stay moist and flavorful during baking.
Bake Chicken: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In the last 5 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the sauce and chicken to brown lightly on top.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Slice the chicken, serve with the creamy sauce, and garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

Notes

Optional searing adds extra flavor and a golden crust but can be skipped for a quicker preparation.
You can substitute dried thyme with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs as you prefer.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to prevent drying out.
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad to complete the meal.

Keywords: baked chicken, Caesar chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, easy chicken recipe, chicken breasts, oven baked chicken