This Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a tasty and healthy meal. Juicy chicken is topped with creamy Caesar dressing, and fresh, crunchy asparagus makes it even better!
I love how colorful this dish looks on my plate. It’s a great way to pretend I’m eating fancy while keeping things simple. Plus, it’s ready in no time!
Pair it with some rice or a warm baguette, and you’ve got a delicious dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their lean protein. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use chicken thighs. They’re juicy and flavorful.
Caesar Dressing: This gives the dish a creamy, tangy flavor. If you want a healthier substitute, a yogurt-based Caesar dressing works well! You can also make a homemade version using Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Parmesan.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds stretchiness while Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. For a non-dairy option, try a vegan mozzarella.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is a must for its crispness. If it’s out of season, substitute with green beans or broccoli for a similar crunch.
Optional Peas: Frozen peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness. If you don’t have them, edamame or corn can be a good alternative!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky! Here’s how to make sure it comes out juicy and tender every time:
- Season the chicken evenly before adding other ingredients. This creates a flavor base.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 165°F (74°C) is the magic number!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after you take it out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute.
- Cover the dish with foil while baking initially to retain moisture, then remove it for a golden finish.
Delicious Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Vegetables:
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to cook. With a total time of about 55 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough to cook your chicken and veggies perfectly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large baking dish, lay out the chicken breasts. Season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Make sure they are evenly coated to enhance the flavor!
3. Add the Caesar Dressing:
Pour the Caesar dressing over each chicken piece, ensuring they are nicely covered. This will make the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
4. Arrange the Asparagus and Peas:
Next, place the trimmed asparagus and, if you like, the frozen peas around the chicken in the baking dish. This adds color and nutrients to your meal!
5. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken and vegetables, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. This is what makes everything deliciously cheesy!
6. Bake the Dish:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps the chicken cook through while keeping it moist.
7. Uncover and Continue Baking:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take the dish out from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your Caesar Chicken with Asparagus while it’s still warm. Enjoy the creamy Caesar flavors combined with the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. If using denser vegetables like carrots, consider steaming them slightly before adding to the dish to help them cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Caesar Dressing?
No problem! You can use another creamy dressing like ranch or Italian, or even make a quick homemade dressing with mayo, lemon juice, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese for a similar flavor profile. Just adjust the seasonings to taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven until heated through. If the dish seems dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or a little extra dressing before reheating!
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through properly.
