I keep this recipe in my regular rotation because it’s quick to prepare and full of bold flavor. I like how the Caesar dressing does most of the work, while the breadcrumbs add a crunchy contrast. It’s a dependable dish that feels complete on its own but also pairs well with simple sides.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 cup Caesar salad dressing 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a baking dish.
In a bowl, I mix the Caesar dressing with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
I place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour half of the dressing mixture over them, making sure they’re evenly coated.
In another bowl, I combine the panko breadcrumbs with half of the Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken.
I drizzle the remaining dressing over the breadcrumbs and finish with the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
I bake the chicken until it’s cooked through and the topping is golden brown. Once out of the oven, I let it rest briefly before slicing and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
I get about 4 servings from this recipe. Prep time takes around 10 minutes, cook time is about 30 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 40 minutes.
Variations
When I want extra heat, I add red pepper flakes to the dressing mixture. I sometimes swap panko for crushed crackers for a different crunch. If I’m aiming for extra richness, I add a little more Parmesan on top during the last few minutes of baking.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I warm the chicken in the oven to help keep the topping crisp, though the microwave works if I’m short on time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
I’ve used boneless chicken thighs, and they turn out just as flavorful, though they may need a slightly longer cooking time.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
I check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and that the juices run clear.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I sometimes assemble everything ahead and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving.
What sides go well with Baked Caesar Chicken?
I usually serve it with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a simple salad.
Can I make this lower in calories?
I use a lighter Caesar dressing and reduce the amount of cheese, and it still tastes great.
Conclusion
This Baked Caesar Chicken is one of my favorite easy dinners because it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. I enjoy how reliable and satisfying it is, making it a recipe I’m always happy to come back to.
