Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Introduction:
Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that brings bold, savory flavors to your dinner table. The tender, juicy chicken is coated in a rich Caesar dressing and baked to golden perfection, while the creamy Parmesan pasta offers a perfect pairing. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to serve something special without a lot of hassle.

Ingredients:

For the Baked Caesar Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  • 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Baked Caesar Chicken:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a bowl, mix the Caesar dressing, sour cream, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the Caesar mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) on top for extra crunch.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on top.

Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  1. While the chicken is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Description:
This dish combines the best of both worlds: tender baked chicken with a creamy Caesar glaze and rich, velvety Parmesan pasta. The Caesar dressing infuses the chicken with tangy, savory flavors, while the pasta adds a luxurious, cheesy comfort that makes every bite satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 620
  • Fat: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 46g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Sugar: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even gluten-free varieties.
  2. Can I substitute the Caesar dressing?
    If you prefer a homemade option, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan to create a quick Caesar-style dressing.
  3. What sides go well with this dish?
    A simple green salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts complement this meal beautifully.

Recommendations:

  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the pasta.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
  • Double the pasta sauce if you prefer a saucier dish.

Conclusion:
Baked Caesar Chicken with a Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests. Serve it up, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s both elegant and delicious!

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