1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Mix the Caesar Coating:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the Caesar mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Add the Optional Crunchy Topping:
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
- If you want to add a crispy topping, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Sprinkle Over the Chicken:
- Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the coated chicken breasts. This will add a delicious crunch to the dish.
4. Bake the Chicken:
- Bake Until Golden and Juicy:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The top should be golden and bubbly, and the chicken should be cooked through but still juicy.
- Optional: Broil for Extra Crispiness:
- For an even crispier top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Pair with Sides:
- Serve the Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Conclusion
Melt In Your Mouth Caesar Chicken is a dish that truly lives up to its name. The creamy Caesar dressing, combined with tangy sour cream and savory Parmesan, creates a rich coating that keeps the chicken incredibly moist and tender. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Caesar chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Serve it with simple sides, and watch as it quickly disappears from the plate!