Introduction
Indulge in the delicious flavors of Caesar Chicken with Asparagus, a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with crispy asparagus in a creamy Caesar dressing. This recipe is a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a satisfying and tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy Caesar dressing, and fresh asparagus creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
How to Make Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup of Caesar dressing, store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound of asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste on both sides.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add Caesar Dressing: Pour Caesar dressing over the seared chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken breasts.
- Add Asparagus: Arrange trimmed asparagus spears around the chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Season with Garlic Powder: Sprinkle garlic powder over the chicken and asparagus.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
Serve this dish hot with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious Caesar dressing. Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
How to Store Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Tips to Make Caesar Chicken with Asparagus
- Make sure to trim the woody ends of the asparagus before cooking for a more tender texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the recipe by adding cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts and opt for a light Caesar dressing for a healthier twist.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe? It’s best to use fresh asparagus for optimal flavor and texture, but you can thaw and pat dry frozen asparagus before cooking.
- Can I marinate the chicken in Caesar dressing beforehand? Yes, marinating the chicken in Caesar dressing for a few hours before cooking can enhance the flavor.
- Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist on this dish.