Easy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in a delightful combination of tender baked chicken smothered in creamy Caesar dressing, paired with luscious Parmesan-infused pasta. This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a comforting yet straightforward meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.​
• Flavorful: The tangy Caesar dressing complements the juicy chicken, while the creamy Parmesan pasta adds a rich and savory element.​
• Time-Efficient: Ready in approximately 30 minutes, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights.​The Cookie Rookie+5cravinghomecooked.com+5thatovenfeelin.com+5

Ingredients

For the Baked Caesar Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts​
• 1 cup creamy Caesar dressing​jessicaodonohue.com+4Reddit+4Easy Family Recipes+4
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese​
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper​
• ½ teaspoon salt​

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)​
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter​YouTube
• 3 cloves garlic, minced​
• 1 cup heavy cream​
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese​
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder​
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste​
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)​

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.​
• Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.​Easy Family Recipes+2thatovenfeelin.com+2jessicaodonohue.com+2
• Arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish and spread the Caesar dressing evenly over each piece.​
• Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.​

2. Bake the Chicken:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).​
• For a golden-brown top, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.​

3. Cook the Pasta:

• While the chicken is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.​

4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.​
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the garlic powder.​
• Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.​
• Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.​

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach the desired consistency.​

6. Serve:

• Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top each serving with a baked Caesar chicken breast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.​

Possible Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets or pork chops for a different twist.​
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the pasta for added nutrition and flavor.​
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.​The Kitchn+4Allrecipes+4Allrecipes+4
• Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.​cravinghomecooked.com+3vikalinka.com+3thecozycook.com+3
• Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.​
• Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.​thecozycook.com+5Allrecipes+5businessinsider.com+5

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to the pasta to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.​

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.​

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta variety you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or rotini.​

Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the sauce?

Heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture. However, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less creamy.​

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the sauce fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If needed, you can make it ahead and gently reheat it, adding a bit of cream to adjust consistency.​

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the Caesar dressing and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.​

What can I serve as a side dish?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement this dish well.​

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), then top with Caesar dressing and Parmesan.

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