Name: Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Patted dry); 1 cup Caesar dressing (At room temperature); 1/2 cup Sour cream (Full-fat or light); 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated if possible); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (Optional, for topping); 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (Chopped, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, juicy, and full of savory Parmesan goodness — Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is comfort food that feels fancy without the fuss. This dish brings together the tangy brightness of Caesar dressing and the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan into a luscious sauce that hugs tender baked chicken breasts. Fun fact: Caesar-flavored dishes have become a versatile weeknight favorite far beyond salads — who knew a classic dressing could turn dinner into a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home?

This recipe is special because it’s simple to pull together, quick enough for busy weeknights, and irresistibly family-friendly. If you’ve loved our takes on other comforting dishes, you’ll find this just as reliable and satisfying — for a similar twist on classic comfort, check out this Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe page for more ideas. Ready your oven and a baking dish — you’re about to make an easy, flavorful dinner everyone will ask for again.

What is Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

What’s in a name? Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is exactly what it sounds like — oven-baked chicken dressed in a velvety sauce inspired by Caesar salad flavors, enriched with Parmesan for a golden, savory finish. Who decided to marry Caesar dressing and baked chicken — a culinary genius or a happy accident? Either way, the result is delightful. And let’s be honest, the classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish is a convincing argument for everyone’s heart. Give it a try and see why this comforting combo keeps popping up on dinner tables.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall for this recipe for three big reasons: first, the main highlight is the creamy, cheesy sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful — think rich, tangy, and irresistibly smooth. Second, making this at home saves money compared to takeout or fancy restaurant versions, and the ingredients are pantry-friendly and affordable. Third, the toppings and seasonings — garlic powder, Italian seasoning, lots of Parmesan, and optional mozzarella — create layers of flavor and a satisfyingly golden finish.

Compared to other hearty chicken classics on the blog, like our Classic Chicken Marsala with Creamy Mushroom Sauce, this dish is brighter and quicker to make while still feeling indulgent. Don’t wait — make it tonight and enjoy a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy because it uses a simple mixing bowl sauce, minimal prep, and one baking dish. The sauce makes the chicken tender and rich, while a quick uncovered finish with mozzarella gives a slightly golden, melty top. Prep time is about 10 minutes and baking time about 25 to 35 minutes, so you’re looking at roughly 35 to 45 minutes from start to table — perfect for weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, patted dry
1 cup Caesar dressing, at room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream, full-fat or light
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated if possible
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional), for topping
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish), about 1 tablespoon

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine Caesar dressing, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.
Place chicken breasts in the prepared dish and coat with the creamy sauce.
Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top (if using), and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes until melted and golden.
Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce

What to Serve With

Pair this creamy chicken with sides that balance the richness and add texture. Great options:

Roasted or mashed potatoes for a cozy, comforting plate.
Steamed green beans or sautéed asparagus to add freshness and crunch.
Garlic bread or crusty baguette to mop up the creamy sauce.
A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad for a light contrast.
For drinks, try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, a light lager, or a sparkling water with lemon.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use room-temperature ingredients: Let the dressing and sour cream sit out for a few minutes so the sauce combines smoothly.
Thin chicken breasts: If breasts are very thick, pound to an even thickness for quicker, more even baking.
Fresh Parmesan matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and blends better than pre-shredded, giving superior flavor and texture.
Cover then uncover: Baking covered locks in moisture; uncovering at the end helps the cheese brown without drying out the chicken.
Avoid overbaking: Use a meat thermometer and pull at 165°F (75°C) to keep the chicken juicy.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier, lighter sauce; swap mozzarella for provolone for a different melt.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep sauce-covered chicken chilled promptly.
Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes covered with foil to maintain moisture. For single portions, microwave on medium power in 30-second bursts until warm, then finish in the oven or under the broiler briefly to refresh the top.
Shelf life note: For best quality and safety, avoid keeping cooked chicken at room temperature longer than two hours.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?
Yes, but increase the baking time and check the internal temperature of the thickest part. Bone-in pieces may take 10 to 20 minutes longer to reach 165°F (75°C).

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most Caesar dressings are gluten-free, but always check labels. If you need a certified gluten-free version, use a labeled gluten-free Caesar dressing and verify all packaged ingredients.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
You can assemble the chicken and sauce in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the mozzarella topping and bake as directed when ready.

What if I don’t have Caesar dressing?
You can create a simple substitute by mixing mayonnaise, a splash of lemon juice, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a little anchovy paste or Worcestershire sauce to mimic Caesar flavors.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use dairy-free sour cream, a plant-based Caesar dressing, and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

How do I know when the chicken is done without a thermometer?
Slice into the thickest part; the juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque all the way through. However, a meat thermometer is the safest method.

Conclusion

Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce is an easy, weeknight-friendly recipe that delivers comforting, restaurant-style flavors with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy families, budget-conscious cooks, and anyone who loves a rich, cheesy sauce over tender chicken. Try this recipe and enjoy the compliments — and if you’re curious about similar delicious variations, check out this Melt in Your Mouth Caesar Chicken Recipe – The Cookie Rookie® for even more inspiration.