Description
This Crispy Caesar Chicken Breasts recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in creamy Caesar dressing and crispy Parmesan-panko crust, baked to golden perfection in the oven. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, with optional lemon zest adding a bright, fresh citrus note.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 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 sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the Caesar dressing and garlic powder. Dip each chicken breast into the dressing mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Then, dip the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, pressing gently to ensure thorough and even coverage.
- Add Olive Oil: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the 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 breasts are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the coating should be golden brown and crispy.
- Optional Lemon Zest: For added freshness and a bright citrus flavor, sprinkle the chicken with lemon zest just before serving.
- Serve: Serve the crispy Caesar chicken breasts with your choice of side such as steamed vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the savory, crunchy perfection!
Notes
- Be sure to pat the chicken dry before coating to help the breading stick better.
- Using panko breadcrumbs creates a crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
- The olive oil drizzle is essential for achieving a golden, crispy texture when baking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked.
- Lemon zest is optional but adds a wonderful brightness to the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
