Name: Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each, patted dry); 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (room temperature for easy spreading); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated if possible for best flavor); 1 tbsp olive oil (for coating the chicken); 1 tsp garlic powder (evenly sprinkled for savory depth); 1/2 tsp kosher salt (to taste); 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, juicy, and packed with savory Parmesan flavor, this Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce is comfort food made elegant and effortless. With just a few pantry staples and less than 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s the kind of dinner that feels fancy but disappears fast — the perfect weeknight winner or a weekend treat. Fun fact: Caesar flavors pair so well with oven-roasting that many home cooks skip the stovetop drama and go straight to the sheet pan for easy cleanup and an unbeatable golden finish.

This recipe is special because it combines the tang of Caesar dressing with the nutty richness of Parmesan in a way that transforms plain chicken breasts into something memorable. It’s simple to prepare, family-friendly, and a reliable crowd-pleaser. If you enjoyed our other hearty mains, you might like this twist on a classic — and if you’re curious about a creamier spin, check out this baked Caesar variation for more inspiration: Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Sauce. Ready to get baking? Let’s make dinner exciting again.

What is Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce?

What’s in a name? Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce sounds like a mouthful, but it’s really just clever shorthand for “chicken that tastes like a Caesar salad had a very cheesy, cozy makeover.” Why call it that? Maybe someone loved Caesar dressing so much they dreamed it up as a saucy blanket for chicken — and who can blame them? After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Want a playful dinner story to tell guests? Say it’s the recipe that proves salads can moonlight as main courses. Give it a try and you might just be handing out seconds (and compliments).

Why You’ll Love This:

Main highlight: A luxuriously creamy Parmesan topping that bakes into a golden, slightly crisp layer over tender, juicy chicken — it’s comfort and elegance on one plate.
Cost-saving benefits: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have — chicken breasts, dressing, and Parmesan — so you get restaurant-style flavor at a fraction of the price.
Flavorful toppings: The tangy Caesar dressing plus grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley create layers of savory, acidic, and herb-fresh notes that wake up every bite.

Compared to a heavier, cream-based chicken dish, this version stays light yet satisfying thanks to the zesty Caesar base. If you loved our garlic-butter pasta feature, try pairing that same rich flavor profile with this chicken for a balanced weeknight feast: Steak Bites in Rich Garlic Butter Sauce with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni. Go ahead — make it tonight.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward: season, dress, top with Parmesan, and bake. It’s ideal for busy cooks because prep is minimal and most of the cooking happens in the oven, freeing you to make a salad or side while the kitchen does the work. You’ll end up with a creamy sauce that bakes into a golden, slightly crispy crust and chicken that stays juicy and tender. Total time: about 35–40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 25–30 minutes baking).

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each), patted dry
1/2 cup Caesar dressing, room temperature for easy spreading
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated if possible for best flavor
1 tbsp olive oil, for coating the chicken and helping seasoning stick
1 tsp garlic powder, evenly sprinkled for savory depth
Salt and pepper to taste (about 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper recommended)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish), about 1–2 tablespoons

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven for even browning.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere and reduces steaming in the oven.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over each chicken breast (or rub across all four) and season both sides with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a lightly greased baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish with space between pieces so air can circulate.
Spread 2 tablespoons (about) of Caesar dressing evenly over the top of each chicken breast, using the back of a spoon to coat it toward the edges. The dressing will keep the chicken moist and add that signature tang.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over each dressed chicken breast, covering the surface. Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible for the best melt and flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness. Chicken is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C) and the Parmesan topping is golden brown. If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 5–10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and brightness.
Serve with your favorite sides — a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or buttery mashed potatoes work beautifully. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish!

Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce

What to Serve With:

Classic Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
Roasted baby potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the Parmesan sauce.
Steamed or roasted green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
Crusty bread or garlic bread for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Beverage pairings: a chilled Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon for a lighter option.

Top Tips for Perfecting:

Substitution: Swap Greek yogurt mixed 1:1 with mayonnaise for a lighter Caesar dressing if you prefer lower fat.
Cheese tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded) for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.
Thickness matters: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness if they vary wildly — this ensures even cooking and prevents dry edges.
Timing: If your breasts are thicker than 1 inch, add 5–8 minutes to baking time and verify with an instant-read thermometer.
Avoid overbrowning: Tent with foil if the cheese top is browning too fast; this prevents a burnt crust while the chicken finishes cooking.
Flavor boost: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest after baking for a bright, fresh finish.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Refrigeration: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Place chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note: texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing.
Reheating (oven): Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C), place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Reheating (microwave): Cover loosely and microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot, to avoid drying out. Add a splash of water or extra dressing if the chicken seems dry.
Reheating tip: Finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to refresh the Parmesan topping, watching carefully to avoid burning.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Reduce bake time slightly or check for doneness at 165°F.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your Caesar dressing and Parmesan to be sure they don’t contain additives with gluten.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Bring to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking and add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

How can I make a crispier topping?
Sprinkle a small amount of panko mixed with a little olive oil and extra Parmesan over the top before baking for a crunchy crust.

What if my Parmesan browns too fast?
Loosely tent the baking dish with foil for the remainder of the baking time to prevent over-browning while the chicken cooks through.

Conclusion

This Oven-Baked Caesar Chicken with Rich Parmesan Sauce is a weeknight hero — simple, fast, and utterly satisfying. It delivers restaurant-worthy flavor without the fuss, and its creamy, tangy topping turns ordinary chicken into something special you’ll want to make again and again. If you want a fresh take on a classic, or are looking for easy family dinners that impress, this recipe is a must-try. For more baked Caesar ideas and variations that inspired this dish, check out this helpful roundup from That Oven Feelin and another easy family-friendly version here: Baked Caesar Chicken – That Oven Feelin, Baked Caesar Chicken · ONE DISH + DELICIOUS · Easy Family … — happy cooking, and don’t forget to share seconds with loved ones!