Mediterranean Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Mediterranean Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and a little elevated, without asking much from you in the kitchen. Juicy baked chicken breasts are seasoned simply, then coated in a rich Caesar-Parmesan sauce that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. The flavors are familiar but layered. Savory cheese, gentle garlic, herbs, and a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
This dish works well for busy weeknights but also holds its own on a casual dinner table with guests. Everything comes together in one baking dish, and the oven does most of the work. If you enjoy Mediterranean-inspired flavors with a creamy twist, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Creamy Parmesan Sauce Ingredients
3/4 cup creamy Caesar dressing
1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/4 cup heavy cream (used in some variations)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them bake evenly and develop better flavor.
Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
In a bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream or Greek yogurt if using, and heavy cream if you prefer a looser sauce. Stir until smooth.
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning or thyme, and half of the mozzarella cheese if using.
Spoon the sauce evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it to fully coat the top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the chicken, if using.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
Pound thicker chicken breasts slightly to ensure even cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother melting.
Avoid overbaking to keep the chicken juicy. Check at the 30-minute mark.
For a golden top, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
If your sauce looks too thick before baking, add a tablespoon of milk or cream.
Season lightly at first since Caesar dressing and Parmesan are naturally salty.
Let the chicken rest after baking so the juices redistribute.
Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for more even heat.
Add herbs after baking to keep them fresh and bright.
Serve with something simple to balance the richness, like roasted vegetables or greens.
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms to the baking dish for extra savory flavor.
Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean touch.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer result.
Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Use Greek yogurt only and skip the cream for a lighter sauce.
Top with crushed croutons before baking for a Caesar-style crunch.
Add spinach to the sauce for extra color and nutrients.
Finish with lemon zest for brightness.
Make it keto-friendly by skipping any sweetened dressings.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use bottled Caesar dressing?
Absolutely. Choose a creamy, good-quality one.
How do I know the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer or check that the juices run clear.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, though the sauce may soften slightly when reheated.
What sides go best with this?
Roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free Caesar dressing and cheese alternatives.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can add spice if you like.
Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, but it may not melt as smoothly.
What if my sauce separates?
Stir gently and avoid overheating during reheating.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, in a suitable dish at 360°F, checking early.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 38g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a reliable, flavorful dish that checks all the right boxes. It is easy, comforting, and adaptable, yet impressive enough to serve beyond a weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and bold, familiar flavors, this recipe proves that baked chicken never has to be boring. Once you try it, it is likely to become one of those meals you come back to again and again.