Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a simple, comforting dinner you can make any night of the week. It pairs juicy chicken breasts with a silky, cheesy sauce. People love it because it feels fancy but takes little time. It works for weeknights, date nights, or when friends drop by. If you enjoy creamy chicken dishes, try a similar creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta for another cozy meal.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is easy and beginner-friendly. You need few ingredients. Many are pantry staples. It cooks in one baking dish. That saves time and cleanup. The sauce makes plain chicken taste special. It also stretches well for leftovers. Families and busy cooks will appreciate the fast prep and rich flavor. It is budget-friendly too.

What makes Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce special

The creamy Parmesan sauce is the star. It coats the chicken and keeps it moist. The garlic powder, Dijon, and lemon add bright depth. Baking rather than frying makes it lighter and hands-off. The optional sear adds color and flavor without extra fuss. This dish hits rich and tangy notes at once. The result feels restaurant-style at home. The sauce is similar to other one-pan comforts like a one-pan creamy orzo with chicken and sausage, but simpler.

Is Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce healthy

This dish uses real ingredients and no processed sauces. The chicken provides lean protein. Heavy cream adds calories and richness, so portion control matters. You can balance the meal with vegetables or a side salad. Baking uses less oil than deep frying. Overall, it can fit a balanced meal plan when served with veggies or whole grains. This is not medical advice, just a simple nutrition note.

How to make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

The method is straightforward. You rub seasoned chicken with oil and spices. You can sear it quickly for color. Then you mix a simple cream and Parmesan sauce. Pour the sauce over the chicken and bake. The hands-on time is short. Total time is about 30–40 minutes. The recipe is great for beginners and busy cooks. For a lighter prep idea, check my 15-minute lemon basil chicken salad.

Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the chicken with olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step adds color.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and thyme. Mix until smooth.
6. Place the chicken in a greased baking dish. Pour the Parmesan sauce evenly over the top.
7. Cover the dish with foil. Bake 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to let the top brown lightly.
9. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the sauce spooned over the slices. Garnish with chopped parsley.

How to serve Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Serve this chicken over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad. For lighter meals, slice the chicken and add it to wraps or grain bowls. It works for lunch, dinner, and even meal prep lunches. For a cozy pairing, enjoy a warm banana bread latte alongside your plate.

 

Best occasions to make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Weeknight dinners when you want something quick and satisfying.
• Family meals where everyone needs a simple, filling dish.
• Casual dinner parties for an impressive but easy main.
• Meal prep for lunches; the sauce keeps well.
• Date nights at home when you want a restaurant-style meal without fuss.

How to store Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Room temperature: Do not leave more than 2 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at low heat or in a covered skillet over medium-low.

Can you make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce ahead of time

Yes. You can prepare the sauce and season the chicken a day ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve. After cooking, store leftovers as above. Reheat slowly to keep the sauce smooth.

Tips to make Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Pat chicken very dry for better searing.
• Use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Don’t boil the sauce when reheating; warm gently.
• Check the chicken with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• If sauce is too thin, simmer it briefly on the stove to thicken.

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Variation

• Lighter version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and add a splash of chicken broth.
• Herb swap: Use fresh thyme or basil instead of dried seasoning.
• Add veggies: Nestle sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes in the baking dish before pouring the sauce.
• Dairy-free: Use a creamy dairy-free alternative and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Yes. Use boneless, skinless thighs and adjust baking time until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: How long will leftovers of Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce keep in the fridge?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Q: Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?

A: You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the sauce will be lighter and may need slight thickening.

Q: Will the sauce separate when reheated?

A: Reheat gently over low heat. Stir often. If it looks thin, simmer a few minutes to thicken rather than boiling.

Enjoy making Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. It’s quick, rich, and perfect for busy nights.