Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

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This recipe combines tender, juicy baked Caesar chicken with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Baked Caesar Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup Caesar salad dressing (creamy, store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  • 1 pound pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  • In a separate dish, pour the Caesar salad dressing.
  • Dip each chicken breast into the Caesar dressing, ensuring it’s well coated.
  • Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be reached.

2. Cook the Pasta:

  • While the chicken is baking, cook the pasta according to the package directions, until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.

4. Combine and Serve:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
  • Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
  • Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta with the baked Caesar chicken on top.
  • Optional: garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  • Optional: Serve lemon wedges with the chicken.
  • Enjoy!

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