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Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is my answer for a no-fuss yet crowd-pleasing dinner whenever I am short on time but want to serve something special. The creamy dressing bakes into a savory sauce while the asparagus roasts up crisp-tender. It is a cozy one-pan recipe you will keep coming back to.
I pulled this dish together the first evening I cooked for my in-laws and it absolutely won them over. Now it is our go-to for both comfort cooking and casual dinners with friends.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Ensures even cooking and absorbs flavor well look for plump fillets with no discoloration
- Salt and black pepper: Builds the basic seasoning foundation always use fresh ground pepper for best flavor
- Olive oil: Gives a golden sear and helps lock in moisture choose extra virgin for richer taste
- Caesar dressing: Coats the chicken with creamy tang use your favorite brand or mix up a homemade version for control over the flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Forms a golden crust and adds nutty depth freshly grated melts more beautifully
- Asparagus spears: Bring color crunch and nutrients select firm tightly closed spears for best texture
- Garlic powder: Adds mellow savoriness without overpowering buy in small quantities so it stays fresh
- Lemon wedges: Finish the dish with uplifting brightness choose heavy lemons with glossy skin for the juiciest results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Season:
- Pat chicken breasts dry then season both sides evenly with salt and fresh black pepper to draw out the natural flavor
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high until shimmering Sear each chicken breast about three to four minutes per side until golden this step locks in moisture so the meat stays juicy
- Dress and Top:
- Take the skillet off the heat Generously drape Caesar dressing over each seared chicken breast make sure each piece is dressed fully Sprinkle a thick layer of grated Parmesan across the tops forming a cheesy crust
- Add the Asparagus:
- Nestle trimmed asparagus spears all around the chicken carefully so every spear is coated lightly with the excess dressing Dust asparagus with garlic powder for gentle savory warmth
- Bake It Off:
- Move the skillet to a preheated 375 degree oven Bake for twenty minutes or until the chicken hits one hundred sixty five degrees internal temp and asparagus is tender but still bright
- Finish and Serve:
- Pull out of the oven and arrange lemon wedges on the side Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything right at the table to lift the flavors Serve right away for the best texture
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Parmesan is my not so secret weapon for this recipe I have a memory of my cousin grating it fresh at the table while we all snuck bites of the crispy edges Every time I make this I am reminded of laughter and the simple delight in sharing a home cooked meal
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The chicken reheats best sliced with a splash of extra Caesar dressing or chicken broth to keep it moist I recommend reheating in the oven covered with foil so the cheese stays melty and the asparagus does not overcook
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping asparagus for green beans or broccoli florets if that is what you have on hand For a dairy-free take use a vegan Caesar dressing and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan Chicken thighs work beautifully too though add a few extra minutes to the bake time
Serving Suggestions
This dinner is hearty as is but you can stretch it by pairing with creamy mashed potatoes fluffy quinoa or a tangle of buttered noodles Sometimes I toss in roasted cherry tomatoes for extra color and a tangy finish It is also wonderful with a crisp green salad on the side
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This recipe effortlessly merges comfort and convenience, making it a delightful go-to one-pan meal for both busy nights and special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well. Adjust baking time to account for thickness, ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
- → Should I use store-bought or homemade Caesar dressing?
Either option is suitable. Homemade dressing offers a fresher flavor, while store-bought saves time and convenience.
- → How do I prevent the asparagus from overcooking?
Arrange asparagus around the chicken rather than under it to ensure even roasting and maintain a crisp-tender texture.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Light greens, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread complement the savory chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
The dish is best enjoyed freshly baked, though leftovers can be stored and reheated gently to preserve texture and flavor.