Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a deliciously simple dinner that delivers rich, comforting flavors. Tender chicken breasts are baked in a savory Parmesan cream sauce, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Step 3: (Optional) Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. This adds extra flavor and color.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until smooth.
5. Step 5: Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Pour the Parmesan cream sauce evenly over the chicken.
6. Step 6: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
7. Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Slice and serve with the creamy Parmesan sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, skip the foil cover and bake uncovered, watching closely to prevent drying out.
• Substitute fresh thyme for dried for a more vibrant herbal flavor.
• Add a handful of chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added texture and taste.
• Serve over pasta, rice, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken moist.

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. Adjust baking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 77 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 3 servings 1x

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Description

This Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Infused with garlic, paprika, and a hint of lemon and thyme, this recipe offers a flavorful twist on classic Caesar flavors, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them evenly with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Optional sear: For extra flavor and color, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown. This step can be skipped if preferred.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble for baking: Place the prepared chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown lightly.
7. Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then slice the chicken and serve with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.

Notes

• Searing the chicken before baking adds additional flavor and a nice golden crust but is optional.
• Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but sauce might be less rich.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in the sauce.
• Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked caesar chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, baked chicken breasts, easy chicken recipe, Parmesan cream sauce