Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With a creamy Caesar dressing marinade and a crispy Parmesan topping, it’s an effortless dish that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Step 3: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
4. Step 4: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the baking dish, spacing them apart for even cooking.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over each chicken breast.
6. Step 6: Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Step 7: For a crispy topping, switch the oven to broil during the last 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
8. Step 8: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
10. Step 10: Serve with lemon wedges to add a bright, tangy finish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken longer, up to 2 hours.
• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle smoky taste.
• Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time and will be even juicier.

Is it necessary to broil the chicken at the end?

Broiling is optional but recommended if you want a crispy, golden cheese topping. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 85 reviews

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken is a simple yet incredible recipe combining tender chicken breasts marinated in Caesar dressing, garlic, and herbs, then baked to juicy perfection with a crispy Parmesan topping. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, offering a delicious twist on classic Caesar flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Toppings and Garnish

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken evenly.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Arrange Chicken Breasts: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the baking dish, spacing them apart to ensure even cooking throughout.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each chicken breast to add a savory crust during baking.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
7. Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For a crispier topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
8. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring tender slices.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken to add color and fresh flavor.
10. Serve: Plate the chicken and serve alongside lemon wedges to add a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

• Marinating for longer than 15 minutes will enhance the flavor even more; up to 2 hours is ideal.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
• If you prefer dairy-free, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.

Keywords: Caesar chicken, baked chicken recipe, Parmesan chicken, easy chicken dinner, garlic chicken, healthy chicken recipe