Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mayonnaise (substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce as a substitution)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, but it adds authentic Caesar flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky depth)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a slight crunch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting a nice texture after baking. Rub each breast with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, anchovy paste, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the heart of the dish—rich, tangy, and packed with flavor.
- Spread a generous layer of the creamy Caesar mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the sauce now to add a golden, crunchy topping.
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and bubbly. If you want a bit more color, pop the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the meat juicy and tender. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a pretty finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International