Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken is a rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious dish that requires minimal effort. This baked chicken recipe is packed with flavor from Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of seasoning. The result? Juicy, tender chicken coated in a creamy, cheesy crust that literally melts in your mouth! Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this easy Caesar chicken recipe is a guaranteed winner.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To prepare this easy Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken, you will need:
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesy goodness)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Easy Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken recipe ?
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Evenly spread the creamy Caesar mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy, golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you prefer a golden-brown top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the Caesar mixture for a spicy twist.
- Keto-Friendly Version: Use full-fat Caesar dressing and avoid sour cream for a low-carb version.
- Herb Lovers: Add chopped fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Bacon Addition: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top before baking for a smoky, salty flavor.
Cooking Note
- If your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Do not overbake, as this can dry out the chicken. Always check with a meat thermometer for doneness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with a fresh side salad to balance out the creamy richness.
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality Caesar dressing for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken in the Caesar mixture for 30 minutes to overnight for even juicier results.
- Cover with foil during baking to prevent excess browning if using extra cheese.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for the Best Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for the best taste and texture.
- Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- For an even creamier texture, mix a bit of cream cheese into the Caesar dressing.
Similar recipes you may also like:
- Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
- Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe
- Easy Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe
- Grilled Chicken Panini Recipe
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier and take about the same cooking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What type of Caesar dressing works best?
A thick, creamy Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought) works best for coating the chicken evenly.
4. Can I freeze Caesar chicken?
Yes! Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
5. How do I make this dish healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and a light Caesar dressing to reduce calories and fat.
Conclusion
Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with the rich flavors of Caesar dressing, makes it an irresistible meal. Simple ingredients, minimal effort, and outstanding flavor—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!
Try this dish today and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
PrintMelt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesy goodness)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Caesar Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Evenly spread the creamy Caesar mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy, golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you prefer a golden-brown top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 900mg
- Protein: 40g
Keywords: Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe