Creamy Caesar Chicken Delight is a mouthwatering and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. This creamy and cheesy chicken recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that will impress your family and friends.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken Breasts: 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the protein base.
- Creamy Caesar Dressing: 1 cup for a rich, tangy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup grated, to add a sharp, cheesy taste.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup to make the sauce extra creamy and delicious.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is ready to cook the chicken evenly.
- Step 2:
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy Caesar dressing, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Step 4:
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use a spoon to spread the mixture, then flip the chicken to coat both sides thoroughly.
- Step 5:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and golden. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Step 6:
- For an extra golden finish, broil the chicken for a couple of minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Step 7:
- While the chicken is baking, prepare your favorite side dishes. Consider serving it with parmesan noodles, whole green beans topped with pan drippings, stuffing, and cornbread swirls for a complete meal.
- Step 8:
- Once the chicken is done, serve it hot alongside your chosen sides. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this delightful dish!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the chicken hot with a side of parmesan noodles, green beans, stuffing, and cornbread swirls for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- For a lighter option, serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens or steamed vegetables.
- This dish can also be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the chicken and sauce in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Helpful Notes
- You can use low-fat sour cream and Caesar dressing to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in Caesar dressing for a few hours before baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Chef Jamie Oliver advises allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.