If you are searching for a flavorful weeknight dinner that feels special but is quick to prepare, this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe is absolutely your go-to. Tender chicken breasts get a delicious makeover with creamy Caesar dressing, melted provolone, and a crunchy crouton topping that adds both texture and zest. The combination of savory, creamy, and crisp elements is so satisfying, it might just become your favorite chicken dish to whip up in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible harmony between each ingredient. Everything you need is straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture from start to finish.
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Make sure to pound them to even thickness for uniform cooking and juiciness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that perfectly balances the creamy dressing.
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing: The star ingredient that infuses every bite with classic Caesar salad flavor.
- 8 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, offering a mild, gooey contrast.
- 1 cup Caesar-style croutons: Crushed to form a crunchy topping that provides delightful texture and an extra burst of that Caesar goodness.
How to Make Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent the chicken from sticking and help promote even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place your pounded chicken breasts in a single layer inside the prepared dish. Evenly sprinkle the salt and pepper over each piece to bring out the chicken’s natural flavors right from the beginning.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Caesar Layer
Next, spread the creamy Caesar dressing evenly over every chicken breast. This not only keeps the chicken moist during baking but also infuses every bite with that rich, tangy taste that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Layer the Provolone Cheese
Place slices of provolone cheese on top of the dressing-covered chicken, making sure to cover each piece fully. This layer will melt down and create a luscious, cheesy blanket over the chicken.
Step 5: Create the Crunchy Crouton Topping
In a large Ziplock bag, crush the Caesar-style croutons into fine crumbs. Sprinkle these crumbs evenly over the cheese layer. This topping will bake into a beautiful golden crust that adds a satisfying crunch contrasting the tender meat underneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish on the center rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you notice the topping browning too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil to keep everything perfectly golden without burning.
How to Serve Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really elevate your plate. Adding freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese on top gives this dish a lovely pop of color and an extra burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the Caesar profile.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines when paired with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes make fantastic companions. Each of these options helps balance the richness of the baked chicken and keeps the meal feeling fresh and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of fun, serve the chicken sliced on a plate drizzled with additional Caesar dressing and sprinkled with extra crouton crumbs. You can also arrange everything atop a bed of cooked pasta or quinoa to frame the dish with more texture and heartiness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you finish your meal, store any leftover Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked chicken with its toppings. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for about 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Warm it in a 350-degree oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the cheese melty and the crouton topping crispy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier, slightly fattier cut. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as thighs may cook a bit faster or slower depending on their size.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Its straightforward assembly and storage friendliness make the Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare in advance and enjoy delicious, homemade meals all week long.
Can I use homemade Caesar dressing?
Yes, using homemade Caesar dressing adds a wonderful personal touch and allows you to adjust the flavors exactly to your liking. Just make sure it’s creamy enough to coat the chicken well.
What if I’m gluten-free? Can I substitute the croutons?
For a gluten-free version, simply swap the croutons for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way you still get the satisfying crunch without the gluten.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Cutting into it should reveal no pink, and the juices should run clear.
Final Thoughts
There is something effortlessly comforting about this Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe that makes it feel like a special occasion without the fuss. The combination of creamy dressing, melty provolone, and crunchy croutons will delight your taste buds and have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try for your next dinner—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Easy Baked Caesar Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Caesar Chicken recipe delivers a flavorful and simple one-dish meal featuring tender boneless chicken breasts topped with creamy Caesar dressing, melted provolone cheese, and a crunchy Caesar-style crouton crust. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner, it combines classic Caesar salad flavors with the convenience of baking in a single dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 1 cup Caesar-style croutons
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Add Caesar Dressing and Cheese: Spread the creamy Caesar dressing evenly over the entire surface of each chicken breast. Then, top each piece thoroughly with slices of provolone cheese, ensuring full coverage for rich, melty topping.
- Prepare and Add Crouton Topping: Place the Caesar-style croutons in a large Ziplock bag and crush them into small crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands. Sprinkle these crouton crumbs evenly over the cheese layer to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish on the center oven rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. If the crumb topping browns too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remaining baking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For best results, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh Caesar-style croutons for the best texture in the topping.
- Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Tent with foil if the breadcrumb topping browns too quickly to prevent burning.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
