Improve your weeknight dinner routine with Caesar Chicken, a delicious and simple dish inspired by the classic Caesar salad. This flavorful chicken recipe calls for marinating tender and juicy chicken breasts in a zesty Caesar dressing before grilling or baking them to perfection. With only a few ingredients and little preparation time, you can have a satisfying and restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Serve this Caesar Chicken with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, combine the Caesar salad dressing, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish if baking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:
- If grilling, remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), as measured with a meat thermometer.
- If baking, transfer the chicken breasts along with the marinade to the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish the Caesar Chicken with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken before eating.
Tips for Serving:
- Serve the Caesar Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken just before serving.
- Leftover Caesar Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Caesar Chicken is a simple but flavorful dish ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends. With its zesty marinade and juicy chicken breasts, it’s a delicious take on the classic Caesar salad that’ll please everyone at the table. Whether grilled outside or baked in the oven, this Caesar Chicken recipe is versatile and easy to tailor to your tastes. So, turn on the grill or preheat the oven and treat yourself to this delicious and satisfying meal tonight!