Heavenly Baked Chicken Caesar: A Gourmet Twist on a Classic Delight

Picture this: succulent baked chicken breasts infused with the rich, tangy flavors of a homemade Caesar dressing. This recipe elevates the classic Caesar salad into a delightful main course that’s perfect for a family dinner or an intimate gathering with friends. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones with this easy-to-make, yet sophisticated dish.

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls (small and large)
• Whisk
• Garlic press
• Microplane or fine grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

For the Baked Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Homemade Caesar Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (or 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil.
   • In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
   • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season them generously with the spice mixture.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
   • Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the chicken to brown slightly.
   • Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and anchovy paste.
   • Add the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, whisking until smooth.
   • Grate the Parmesan cheese using a microplane and add it to the mixture.
   • Squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl, then season with sea salt and black pepper.
   • Whisk all ingredients until the dressing is creamy and well-blended.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.
   • Arrange the chicken strips on a serving platter.
   • Generously drizzle the homemade Caesar dressing over the chicken.
   • Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, if desired.

Pairing Suggestions

This baked chicken Caesar is versatile and pairs beautifully with various side dishes. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a crisp garden salad featuring seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add a warm, earthy dimension to the meal. If you prefer grains, a quinoa or farro salad with fresh herbs and a lemony dressing complements the rich flavors of the Caesar dressing.

Preparing this baked chicken Caesar is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful culinary adventure. Each step, from crafting the homemade dressing to the final plating, is an opportunity to infuse love and care into your meal. Enjoy making and sharing this delectable dish with your family, and relish the moments of togetherness it brings to your table.