Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Baked Caesar Chicken

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken breast with Caesar dressing, ensuring they are fully covered.
  4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken for a crispy, golden topping.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on top.
  6. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream, then add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and place a baked Caesar chicken breast on top.
  2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  3. 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! 🍗🍝

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