Caesar Chicken Asparagus Bake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
450g asparagus spears, trimmed
03 -
240ml Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
04 -
120ml grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
30ml olive oil
06 -
Salt, to taste
07 -
Black pepper, to taste
08 -
5ml garlic powder
09 -
Lemon wedges, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 200°C.
02 -
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
03 -
Heat 30ml of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust but are not fully cooked through.
04 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the 240ml of Caesar dressing over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Evenly sprinkle 120ml of Parmesan cheese over the dressed chicken.
05 -
Arrange the 450g of trimmed asparagus spears around the chicken within the skillet. Sprinkle the asparagus with 5ml of garlic powder and a light touch of additional Parmesan cheese.
06 -
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Continue baking until the chicken is fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 74°C) and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
07 -
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each serving just before plating. Serve immediately while hot.
# Notes:
01 -
Ingredient Substitutions: Green beans or broccoli can be used in place of asparagus. Pecorino cheese makes an excellent alternative to Parmesan. For a lighter preparation, consider substituting Greek yogurt for Caesar dressing, or use a vegan Caesar dressing for dietary adjustments.
02 -
Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and refrigerated. Bake just prior to serving for optimal freshness.
03 -
Storage Tips: Store any leftover portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or extra dressing to maintain chicken moisture.
04 -
Pro Tip: For an extra crispy, golden-brown cheesy topping, broil the skillet for the final 2 minutes of baking. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
05 -
Serving Suggestions: This bake pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or crusty bread to absorb the rich sauce. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.