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Need something simple yet fancy? My go-to is this Caesar Chicken with Asparagus. The chicken soaks up that smooth sauce while the asparagus adds a fresh crunch. Everything cooks in one dish, and I keep coming back to make it again.
I first whipped this up when my spouse's parents visited. They couldn't get enough, and now it's my go-to when I want some family comfort food or have friends coming over for dinner.
Delicious Ingredients
- Lemon wedges: Add a zesty kick at serving time Pick ones that feel weighty and glossy for better juice
- Garlic powder: Gives subtle flavor without taking over Buy in small amounts for maximum freshness
- Asparagus spears: Add snap, color and good-for-you stuff Look for firm tips and straight stalks at the store
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a savory golden top layer Shred it yourself for better melting results
- Caesar dressing: Coats everything in rich creaminess Use your favorite brand or mix up your own version
- Olive oil: Keeps chicken moist while browning Try extra virgin for more robust taste
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances all the flavors Sea salt and fresh-ground pepper work best
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein that absorbs all the goodness Choose thick, fresh cuts for juiciest results
Simple Instructions
- Season First:
- Dry the chicken with paper towels, then sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. This will make everything taste better.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Brown each chicken breast for about three to four minutes per side until golden. This locks in all the juices.
- Dress and Cheese:
- Remove the pan from heat. Pour Caesar dressing all over the chicken, making sure it's well coated. Then scatter Parmesan on top to form a cheesy crust.
- Add Those Veggies:
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus around the chicken pieces, letting them touch the sauce too. Dust everything with garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Bake It:
- Slide your pan into a 375 degree oven and cook for about 20 minutes until chicken reaches 165 degrees inside and asparagus still has some bite to it.
- Finish and Plate:
- Take it out of the oven and put lemon wedges nearby for squeezing over just before eating. Serve right away for the best texture!
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The Parmesan really makes this dish special. I remember my cousin grating extra at the table while we all grabbed more crispy bits. Those moments of sharing food and stories always come to mind when I make this.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Put any extra portions in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to three days. For best results when reheating, cut the chicken first and add a splash more dressing or chicken broth. I prefer warming it in the oven under foil to keep the cheese melty and the asparagus from getting too soft.
Ingredient Alternatives
Don't have asparagus? Try green beans or broccoli instead—they're just as good. For dairy-free options, grab some vegan Caesar and swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast. Chicken thighs work too, just cook them a bit longer.
Serving Suggestions
This dish stands on its own but tastes amazing with buttered pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or light fluffy quinoa. Sometimes I toss in some roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor or serve with a simple green salad on the side.
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This dish brings together easy cooking and home comfort, adding a touch of something special to any dinner—whether you're rushing through a weeknight or planning something nice for guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap chicken thighs for breasts?
Of course! Thighs work really well. They'll need extra baking time to hit 165°F since they're thicker.
- → Should I make Caesar dressing or buy it?
Homemade Caesar's got more punch, but store-bought saves time. Both taste great here.
- → How can I stop asparagus from overcooking?
Put asparagus spears around the chicken, not underneath. This way, they roast nicely without going mushy.
- → What sides go well with this meal?
A crisp salad, roasted potatoes, or some crusty bread would all be great additions to this dish.
- → Can I prep this dish ahead?
It's best fresh, but leftovers reheat well. Warm them gently to keep everything tender and tasty.