Description
Enjoy a deliciously crispy Caesar Chicken Breast recipe featuring boneless, skinless chicken coated in a savory blend of Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make meal offers a flavorful twist on classic chicken with a crunchy crust and juicy inside, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrusy note)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and aid in cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drying the surface ensures the coating adheres better to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the Caesar dressing and garlic powder. Dip each chicken breast into this mixture, coating evenly. Then dip the chicken into a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to cover both sides well.
- Add Olive Oil: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the coated chicken to help create a crispy crust when baked.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Optional Lemon Zest: Before serving, sprinkle the chicken with lemon zest if desired. This adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that complements the savory flavors.
- Serve: Serve the crispy Caesar chicken breasts with your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables, pasta, or a green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature is 165°F for safe consumption.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes—but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Lemon zest is optional but recommended to enhance flavor with a fresh note.
- Caesar dressing can be substituted with ranch or a homemade Caesar for different flavor profiles.
