Description
This Baked Caesar Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a creamy Caesar dressing and topped with a buttery Parmesan and crouton mixture for a crispy, flavorful finish. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this dish combines classic Caesar salad flavors with hearty baked chicken.
Ingredients
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup Caesar salad croutons, crushed
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
For the Chicken
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (1 1/2 to 2 pounds total)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- cooking spray
For the Dressing Mixture
- 1 cup creamy Caesar salad dressing
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For Garnish
- chopped fresh parsley to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish: Gather all ingredients. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (180 degrees C). Lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Topping Mixture: In a bowl, combine crushed croutons, shredded Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Toss gently to mix. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Pound Chicken Even: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast evenly with freshly ground black pepper and salt. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, stir together the creamy Caesar salad dressing, sour cream, and all-purpose flour until well combined.
- Coat Chicken: Spoon the dressing mixture over the chicken breasts, turning them to coat thoroughly on all sides for maximum flavor.
- Top Chicken: Evenly distribute the crouton and Parmesan butter mixture over the coated chicken breasts to create a crispy topping when baked.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is browned and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Check doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) using an instant-read thermometer. The juices should run clear.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is essential.
- An instant-read thermometer is highly recommended to check for the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can substitute gluten-free croutons if dietary restrictions require it.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
