Description
This Crispy Caesar Chicken Breasts recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful Caesar dressing and Parmesan panko crust, baked to golden perfection. A quick and easy dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, offering a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors with an optional citrusy lemon zest finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating & Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Others
- 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 the chicken from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier crust.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the Caesar dressing and garlic powder. Dip each chicken breast into this mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Then, dip the chicken into a separate mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, pressing gently so the coating sticks well on both sides.
- Add Olive Oil: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the coated chicken to aid in crisping the crust during baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The crust should be a golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Optional Lemon Zest: Just before serving, sprinkle the baked chicken with lemon zest to introduce a fresh and vibrant citrus note that complements the savory flavors.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy Caesar chicken breasts alongside your choice of vegetables, pasta, or a simple green salad for a complete and delicious meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry to help the coating adhere better and achieve maximum crispiness.
- Using panko breadcrumbs gives a lighter, crunchier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder based on your flavor preference.
- Olive oil drizzled before baking helps achieve a golden, crisp texture without frying.
- Lemon zest adds a fresh, bright note but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking and maintain juiciness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
