Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Caesar Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a large bowl. Season them evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated with the seasoning.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a lightly golden brown crust. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish baking in the oven.
- Transfer Chicken to Baking Dish: Carefully move the seared chicken breasts from the skillet to your prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Prepare Caesar Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture to add richness and flavor.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Evenly pour the prepared creamy Caesar sauce over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is well covered.
- Add Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the sauced chicken, creating a cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh garnish. Serve warm for a deliciously creamy meal.
Notes
- Do not overcook the chicken during searing, as it will continue to cook in the oven to avoid drying out.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and dressing for a healthier alternative.
- The parsley topping is optional but adds a nice fresh flavor and color contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American