3-Ingredient Baked Caesar Chicken
3-Ingredient Baked Caesar Chicken
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, this 3-Ingredient Baked Caesar Chicken is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, savory, and perfectly juicy, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time and energy are limited. With just chicken, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe proves that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something truly delicious.
This dish is especially great for families because it’s mild yet flavorful, and picky eaters usually love it. The Caesar dressing keeps the chicken moist while adding a rich, garlicky taste, and the Parmesan creates a golden, slightly crispy topping that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this baked Caesar chicken fits easily into your weekly meal rotation. If you enjoy easy Mediterranean-style meals, you may also like Greek Meatballs with Orzo.
Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Caesar Chicken
One of the biggest reasons this recipe stands out is its simplicity. You don’t need advanced cooking skills, fancy equipment, or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything comes together in one baking dish, which also means less cleanup afterward.
Another reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. It also works well for meal prep, as the leftovers reheat beautifully without drying out. If you’re looking to switch things up while keeping the same effortless, restaurant-style vibe, Chicken Marsala is another easy and flavorful option you’ll enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe because they cook evenly and absorb the Caesar dressing well. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker, juicier meat. - Creamy Caesar Dressing
This is the main flavor booster in the recipe. A thick, creamy Caesar dressing adds garlicky, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes that season the chicken perfectly without extra spices. - Parmesan Cheese
Finely grated Parmesan melts and browns under the broiler, creating a flavorful crust on top of the chicken. Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste and texture. - Optional Garnish
Fresh parsley isn’t required, but it adds a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish look more appealing.
3-Ingredient Baked Caesar Chicken
Notes
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay tender.
- Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the Caesar dressing over them. Flip the chicken a few times to ensure each piece is fully coated. This step locks in moisture and flavor as the chicken bakes.
- Bake the chicken uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be cooked through and lightly golden on top.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Switch the oven to broil and return the dish for 3–4 minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns lightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
- Don’t overbake the chicken, as it can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Choose a good-quality Caesar dressing since it’s the main flavor component.
- Grate Parmesan finely so it melts evenly and browns nicely under the broiler.
- If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them in half lengthwise.
- This baked Caesar chicken pairs well with many side dishes. Serve it with buttery mashed potatoes, garlic rice, roasted broccoli, or a crisp green salad. You can also slice the chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or over pasta for a quick lunch the next day.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave with a splash of water or extra dressing to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well and tend to be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
2. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the baked chicken after cooking. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
3. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, then add Parmesan and air fry for 2 more minutes until melted.
4. What if my Caesar dressing is too thin?
If the dressing is very thin, the sauce may spread too much. In that case, use slightly less dressing or add extra Parmesan on top.
5. Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto-style diets.
Conclusion
This 3-Ingredient Baked Caesar Chicken is proof that simple recipes can still be incredibly satisfying. With juicy chicken, creamy Caesar flavor, and a golden Parmesan topping, it’s an easy dinner you can rely on when time is short but taste still matters. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just want a stress-free dinner, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen.
