Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with a rich and cheesy sauce that’s full of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with a rich and cheesy sauce that’s full of classic Caesar flavors. The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a smooth, garlicky touch that perfectly complements the savory chicken, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels fancy but is really simple to prepare. The creamy sauce is my favorite part, and I like to spoon extra over the chicken to make it extra saucy. It’s the kind of meal that everyone seems to enjoy, probably because it has that familiar Caesar salad taste but in a warm and cozy chicken dinner.
One of the best ways I like to serve Baked Caesar Chicken is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or even when guests come over because it looks impressive but doesn’t take all day to make. This is a go-to recipe I find myself making again and again when I want a comforting meal with a little extra deliciousness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts makes cooking easier and faster. If you prefer, thighs work well too and stay juicy.
Parmesan cheese: It adds that classic nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you want a sharper taste.
Heavy cream: This creates the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream (for dairy-free).
Garlic and Dijon mustard: These make the sauce flavorful and tangy. If Dijon isn’t available, yellow mustard can work, but flavor will be milder.
Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and color. If you don’t have parsley, chives or basil are nice alternatives.
How to Get Juicy, Well-Browned Chicken Every Time?
Getting a good sear on the chicken before baking is key. It locks in juices and gives a nice color. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry to help it brown better.
- Use a hot skillet with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side without moving the chicken.
- Don’t try to cook it fully in the pan—baking finishes it gently.
This technique keeps the chicken moist and tasty under the creamy sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing the chicken and then baking it without extra dishes.
- Medium saucepan – great for making the creamy Parmesan sauce smoothly.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice the chicken neatly after baking.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get your spices and liquids just right.
- Wooden spoon or whisk – ideal for stirring the sauce and avoiding lumps.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs to get a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Add cooked bacon bits on top for extra smoky crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers into the sauce for a tangy twist.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley to change the herb flavor.
How to Make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 5-8 minutes to sear the chicken, and 15-20 minutes baking time. Overall, you’ll spend about 30-40 minutes from start to delicious finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry, rub them with olive oil, and season evenly with the spice blend.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook each side for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned. They don’t need to be cooked through yet. Once browned, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
4. Bake the Chicken with Sauce:
Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F or 74°C).
5. Serve:
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking. Slice it, spoon any extra sauce on top, and garnish with more parsley. Serve warm with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to get a good sear.
Can I Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before pouring over the chicken.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Caesar Chicken?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad all pair wonderfully. Choose sides that soak up the delicious sauce!
Can I Substitute Parmesan Cheese in This Recipe?
Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a sharper, saltier flavor. For a milder taste, you can try Asiago or even a good aged cheddar, but Parmesan is ideal.
