JUICY BAKED CAESAR CHICKEN WITH PARMESAN SAUCE

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## **Instructions:**

### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.

### **2. Prepare the Chicken**
– Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
– If they are thick, you can slice them in half lengthwise or pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.

### **3. Sear the Chicken (Optional)**
For extra flavor, heat **1 tablespoon of olive oil** in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for **2-3 minutes per side** until golden brown. This step is optional but adds an extra depth of flavor.

### **4. Make the Caesar Parmesan Sauce**
In a medium bowl, mix together:
– **1 cup Caesar dressing**
– **1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt**
– **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1 teaspoon onion powder**
– **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning**
– **1/2 teaspoon black pepper**

Stir well until fully combined.

### **5. Assemble the Dish**
– Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish.
– Pour the Caesar Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken.
– If you love extra cheesiness, sprinkle **1/2 cup shredded mozzarella** on top.

### **6. Bake the Chicken**
Bake uncovered for **25-30 minutes** or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches **165°F (75°C)**.

### **7. Broil for a Golden Top (Optional)**
For a crispy, golden cheese topping, switch the oven to **broil** for the last 2-3 minutes.

### **8. Garnish and Serve**
Let the chicken rest for **5 minutes** before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness.

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## **Serving Suggestions**
This creamy baked Caesar chicken pairs well with:
– **Mashed potatoes** – to soak up all that delicious sauce.
– **Steamed or roasted vegetables** – such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
– **Garlic bread** – to enjoy every last drop of the Parmesan sauce.
– **A fresh salad** – a crisp Caesar salad complements the dish beautifully.

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## **Tips for Success**
– **Use a Meat Thermometer**: Ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
– **Don’t Overbake**: Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark.
– **Try Different Cheeses**: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Swiss for a different twist.
– **Make It Spicier**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

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## **Conclusion**
Juicy Baked Caesar Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests. With its creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors, this dish is bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! 🍽️✨