Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Introduction

This Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner. Tender roasted chicken breasts are seasoned simply and topped with a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that tastes like homemade Caesar dressing. The result is a rich, restaurant-quality dish that comes together quickly with everyday ingredients. It’s the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and bright.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy one-pan chicken dinner with simple pantry ingredients
  • Creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce adds Caesar-style flavor without bottled dressing
  • Cooks in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights
  • Family-friendly and great for meal prep
  • Naturally low-carb and keto-friendly
  • Pairs well with salads, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables
  • Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday cooking

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Parmesan Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Optional Toppings & Garnish

  • Croutons, for crunch
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Place the seasoned chicken into a lightly greased baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Sauce

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon or drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the baked chicken.
Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and croutons for added texture.

Tips for Best Results

  • Patting the chicken dry helps the seasoning stick and encourages browning.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or chicken broth.
  • Avoid boiling the cream—gentle simmering prevents curdling.
  • Resting the chicken for a few minutes keeps it juicy and tender.
  • Slice the chicken after plating to showcase the rich sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
  • Add capers or anchovy paste to the sauce for a more authentic Caesar flavor.
  • Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or cayenne.
  • Substitute half-and-half for cream, but simmer longer to thicken.
  • Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the sauce.
  • Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted broccoli.
  • Add garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for a comforting meal.
  • Great for date nights, meal prep lunches, or family dinners.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze chicken without sauce for up to 2 months; thaw and add sauce after reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (approx. 1 chicken breast + sauce):

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Total Fat: 28g
    • Saturated Fat: 14g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg
  • Sodium: 460mg
  • Potassium: 520mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Vitamin A: 820 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1mg
  • Calcium: 180mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are estimated and may vary depending on ingredient brands.

FAQ

Can I use bottled Caesar dressing instead of making the sauce?
Yes, but the homemade Parmesan sauce gives a richer and fresher flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Use low heat and freshly grated Parmesan—it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bake the chicken in advance, but make the sauce fresh for best texture.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can leave it out or replace it with a pinch of ground mustard.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Simmer longer to thicken.

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