Introduction
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, savory, and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with the bold flavors of Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese. Paired with a creamy, garlic-infused pasta, this dish is perfect for an easy yet elegant weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
For the Baked Caesar Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispiness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baked Caesar Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast with Caesar dressing, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken for a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, then add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and place a baked Caesar chicken breast on top.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Baked Caesar Chicken and Pasta
- Use high-quality Caesar dressing for the best flavor.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Add vegetables like spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
- Make it a one-pan meal by baking the chicken over a bed of cooked pasta and pouring the sauce over everything.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy.
- Freeze baked chicken separately for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy! 🍗🍝
