Introduction
If you enjoy rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort, this Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a recipe you will truly appreciate. It takes the familiar, savory notes of classic Caesar dressing and transforms them into a hearty baked chicken dish that feels both indulgent and dependable. The first time I prepared this recipe, I was surprised by how tender the chicken stayed while baking, thanks to the creamy sauce that locks in moisture and flavor.
This dish is ideal for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without standing over the stove. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Caesar seasoning creates a bold yet balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with baked chicken. I have served this recipe with roasted vegetables and simple pasta, and it consistently delivers a comforting, restaurant-style experience right at home.
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Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy baked chicken breasts coated in classic Caesar flavors and finished with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that’s savory, comforting, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine Caesar dressing, heavy cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Searing the chicken first helps lock in moisture.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, flavorful, and incredibly reliable. The chicken stays juicy, the sauce turns velvety and rich in the oven, and the ingredients are easy to find. It is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want a no-fuss baked chicken recipe with elevated flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean yet satisfying base. When baked in sauce, they remain tender and juicy.
Caesar dressing
Caesar dressing forms the foundation of the sauce, delivering creamy texture and signature savory flavor.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds richness, saltiness, and depth, thickening the sauce as it bakes.
Garlic
Fresh garlic enhances the sauce with bold aroma and savory intensity.
Olive oil
Olive oil adds moisture and helps the chicken bake evenly without drying out.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds subtle heat and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Italian seasoning
This blend of herbs complements the Caesar flavor and enhances the overall profile of the dish.
Salt
Salt sharpens the flavors and ensures the chicken is seasoned throughout.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish. Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the dish and season lightly with salt and black pepper. In a mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For a golden finish, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and baking time is about 35 minutes, for a total time of 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, spooning extra sauce over the chicken to maintain moisture.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe adapts easily to different tastes. For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before baking. If you enjoy sharper flavor, increase the Parmesan or add a small amount of grated Romano cheese.
You can also incorporate vegetables directly into the baking dish. Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach work especially well and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. I once tested this recipe using chicken thighs instead of breasts, and the result was even juicier with a deeper flavor.
For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat Caesar dressing and serve the chicken with steamed vegetables or salad instead of starches.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 |
| Protein (g) | 38 |
| Carbs (g) | 4 |
| Fat (g) | 28 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 8 |
| Fiber (g) | 0 |
| Sugar (g) | 2 |
| Sodium (mg) | 820 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Pound chicken evenly
Even thickness ensures consistent cooking and juicier results.
Do not overbake
Remove the chicken as soon as it reaches temperature to prevent dryness.
Broil briefly
A short broil adds color and enhances flavor without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work very well and remain especially juicy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for planned meals.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish a few hours in advance and bake when ready.
What sides pair well with this recipe?
Roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad are all excellent options.
Can I freeze this recipe?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to one month.
Is this recipe low carb?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.
Conclusion
Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a dependable, comforting dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and flexible serving options, this recipe is an excellent addition to your regular dinner rotation.
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