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Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken

Melt-in-your-mouth Caesar chicken baked until juicy and tender, then topped with a creamy Parmesan Caesar sauce and bubbly mozzarella. Finished under the broiler for a lightly golden cheese layer and served hot with parsley.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Caesar topping
  • 1 cup Caesar dressing
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
Cheese finish
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Optional for serving
  • 0.5 cup buttered pasta Optional serving suggestion.
  • 0.5 cup mashed potatoes Optional serving suggestion.
  • 1 cup roasted broccoli Optional serving suggestion.

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 oven

Method
 

Prep and bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat until fully warmed so the chicken starts cooking right away.
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use an even coat so the chicken releases cleanly.
  3. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer. Keep them spaced so the sauce can reach the sides.
  4. In a bowl, combine Caesar dressing, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and evenly speckled.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Cover the tops thoroughly so the sauce forms a creamy coating.
  6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Add an even layer so it melts into a uniform cheesy crust.
  7. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Look for bubbling sauce at the edges and juices running clear when checked.
Broil and serve
  1. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a lightly golden cheese topping. Watch closely for browned spots without scorching.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Add it right after broiling so it stays bright and green.
  3. Serve hot with your preferred side dishes. Choose buttered pasta, mashed potatoes, and/or roasted broccoli.

Notes

Pro tip: for the most tender results, check doneness at 35 minutes and remove as soon as the thickest part hits 165°F (74°C) to prevent drying. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended because the creamy topping can separate. For a dietary swap, use a low-fat or light Caesar dressing to reduce overall calories while keeping the same baked texture.