If you are looking for a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of classic Caesar salad with the comforting warmth of a baked entrée, this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in creamy Caesar dressing, topped with gooey provolone cheese, and finished off with a satisfyingly crunchy layer of Caesar-style crouton crumbs. It’s a simple yet irresistible meal that feels both elegant and cozy, perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the protein-packed chicken breasts that serve as the hearty base, to the flavorful Caesar dressing and the crispy crouton topping, each component is straightforward but essential.
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounding them to an even thickness ensures even cooking and tender bites.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth and depth.
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing: This is the heart of the flavor, giving the dish that signature tangy and savory Caesar taste.
- 8 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, adding smooth, mild richness.
- 1 cup Caesar-style croutons: Crushed to create a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken underneath.
How to Make Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay out the pounded chicken breasts in a single layer inside the dish and season them evenly with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning step helps to build foundational flavor for the dish.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Caesar Dressing
Next, spread the creamy Caesar dressing generously and evenly over each chicken breast. The dressing not only infuses the meat with that classic Caesar tang but also helps to keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
Step 3: Layer with Provolone Cheese
Place slices of provolone cheese over the coated chicken so they cover each breast fully. The cheese melts during baking, creating a luscious layer that melds perfectly with the zesty dressing below.
Step 4: Add the Crouton Topping
Crush the Caesar-style croutons inside a large Ziplock bag until they turn into coarse crumbs. Sprinkle these evenly on top of the melted cheese. This final element adds a golden, crispy texture that makes the dish so satisfyingly crunchy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken in the center of the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the topping—if the croutons start to brown too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy, safe-to-eat results.
How to Serve Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To heighten the Caesar-inspired flavors, consider sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped fresh parsley over the top right before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the richness and add a lovely zesty note.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or garlic-roasted potatoes all complement the creamy, cheesy chicken without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at your next dinner, try slicing the baked chicken and serving it over a bed of romaine lettuce tossed with extra Caesar dressing. Alternatively, plating it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa can turn it into a balanced, colorful bowl that’s as inviting to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Baked Caesar Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it an excellent choice for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep the dish longer, it freezes well. Just wrap individual portions tightly or store in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain the crispy crouton topping. You can also heat in the microwave, but the topping may lose some crunchiness. A quick few minutes under the broiler can help revive that golden crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work beautifully and offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What can I substitute for provolone cheese?
If you don’t have provolone on hand, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great mild melty cheeses to substitute without overwhelming the flavor balance of the dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by using a dairy-free Caesar dressing and a suitable dairy-free cheese alternative, you can adapt this recipe to suit dairy-free diets while still enjoying the essence of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and reheats nicely, giving you an effortless, delicious option throughout the week.
How can I make the crouton topping extra crunchy?
To maximize crunch, you can toss the crushed croutons with a bit of melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling them on top. This helps them brown beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say you’re going to want to make this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe again and again. It’s a wonderfully simple way to bring bold, familiar flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite for you and everyone you share it with!
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Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Caesar Chicken recipe is a delicious and simple way to enjoy juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy Caesar dressing, melted provolone cheese, and crispy Caesar-style croutons, all baked to golden perfection in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup Caesar-style croutons
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Arrange and Season Chicken: Place the pounded chicken breasts in a single layer inside the greased baking dish. Season each piece evenly with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Add Caesar Dressing and Cheese: Spread the creamy Caesar dressing evenly over the surface of each chicken breast. Then, top each piece thoroughly with slices of provolone cheese, ensuring full coverage.
- Crush and Sprinkle Croutons: Place the Caesar-style croutons into a large Ziplock bag and crush them into crumbs using your hands or a rolling pin. Evenly sprinkle the crushed croutons over the cheese-covered chicken breasts to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F) and the crumb topping turns golden brown. If the crumbs start browning too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning and continue baking until done.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cooking and juicy results.
- If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, you can substitute provolone with Parmesan or mozzarella.
- Use store-bought Caesar dressing or homemade for enhanced flavor.
- Monitor the croutons during baking to prevent burning; tent with foil if necessary.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
