If you’re yearning for a meal that’s quick enough for a busy weekday yet has all the trappings of a leisurely Sunday dinner, then this Caesar Chicken with Asparagus recipe is your answer. It’s a sophisticated twist on the classic Caesar salad, transforming it into a warm, inviting main course that’s sure to impress. This dish marries the creamy, tangy flavors of Caesar dressing with juicy chicken and crisp asparagus, creating a symphony of flavors in one pan—and who doesn’t love minimal cleanup?
Accompany this dish with some creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a slice of warm crusty bread to make sure not a drop of that delicious sauce goes to waste. A light, crisp salad on the side can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until they’re golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Add Caesar Magic:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Generously pour the Caesar dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Arrange Asparagus:
Tuck the trimmed asparagus spears around the chicken in the skillet. Dust the asparagus with garlic powder, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Serve and Enjoy:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and asparagus right before serving to add a burst of zesty flavor.
Variations & Tips:
Kid-Friendly Veggies: Wrap the asparagus in bacon before baking to make it more appealing to young or picky eaters.
Dietary Adjustments: Substitute the Caesar dressing with a lighter version or a homemade one to better control the ingredients.
Vegetable Variations: Not a fan of asparagus? Swap it for green beans or roasted broccoli for an equally delicious alternative.
Add Crunch: For a nod to the traditional Caesar salad, add some croutons to the skillet during the last few minutes of baking.
Extra Color and Flavor: Consider tossing some halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet before baking for a pop of sweetness and color.
This Caesar Chicken with Asparagus recipe is designed to bring a touch of elegance to your dining table with minimal fuss, blending beloved flavors in a way that feels both familiar and exciting. Here’s to a meal that satisfies the soul as much as the palate!