Baked Caesar Chicken is creamy and cheesy with bright, savory flavor. The tender chicken bakes in a simple Caesar-based sauce until it is juicy and practically melts in your mouth.
Easy Recipe and Only 6 Ingredients
This baked Caesar chicken is an ideal weeknight meal: minimal prep, familiar pantry ingredients, and satisfying results. Prep takes about 10 to 15 minutes, then bake for roughly 30 minutes. A brief broil at the end creates a golden, bubbly cheese topping. The recipe scales well and can be adjusted for thicker or thinner chicken breasts.
Ingredients Needed For Baked Caesar Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – If breasts are very large, cut each one in half horizontally so they cook evenly.
- Salt and pepper – Use sparingly since Caesar dressing is salty.
- Garlic powder – About 1/2 teaspoon for a mild garlic flavor.
- 1 cup Caesar dressing – The dressing provides most of the flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – Adds extra creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully; provolone works as an alternative.
- 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan – Adds sharp, savory depth.
- Chopped fresh parsley – Optional, for garnish and freshness.
Choosing the Caesar Dressing
Because the dressing is the main flavor in this dish, choose a good-quality Caesar dressing you enjoy. A classic, creamy Caesar gives the chicken its characteristic tang and saltiness. If you prefer a lighter result, select a slightly milder or lower-fat dressing and taste as you go.
How To Serve
This chicken pairs well with simple sides that soak up the creamy sauce. Serve it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or over a bed of white rice or mashed potatoes. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice. Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
How Long To Cook
Bake time is approximately 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Chicken is done when the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C). Because breast sizes vary, use a quick-read thermometer to confirm doneness. If breasts are unusually thick, add 5 to 10 extra minutes; if they are thin, check a few minutes earlier to prevent drying.
How To Make It Spicy
If you prefer heat, stir 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing mixture before coating the chicken. Alternatively, add a splash of hot sauce to the dressing to taste.
More Easy Weeknight Chicken Recipes
- Easy Chicken Pot Pie
- Smothered Chicken Breasts
- Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce
- Creamed Chicken and Biscuits
Recipe Summary
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes plus 3–5 minutes broil
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray or grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a slightly smaller dish) with cooking spray or a little oil.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remember to use salt sparingly because the Caesar dressing can be salty.
- In a small bowl, mix the Caesar dressing and sour cream until smooth. Coat both sides of each chicken breast with the dressing mixture and arrange the breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spoon any remaining dressing over the tops.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the chicken.
- Bake for 30 minutes. If you want a browned, bubbly top, switch the oven to broil for 3 to 5 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning. Thicker breasts may require an additional 5–10 minutes in the oven.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, sprinkle with chopped parsley if using, and serve warm.
Notes
This recipe works best with relatively thin chicken breasts. If yours are thick, slice each breast in half horizontally and use two halves per serving. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short increments to preserve moisture. Add a splash of water or a little extra dressing if the sauce appears dry when reheating.
Nutrition
Calories: Approximately 640 kcal per serving. Nutrition figures are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.