Caesar Chicken with Asparagus: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Elevate your dinner routine with our tantalizing Caesar Chicken with Asparagus recipe. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts smothered in creamy Caesar dressing, topped with savory Parmesan cheese, and accompanied by tender asparagus spears. Bursting with flavor and freshness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delightful dish!
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
Instructions:
- 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. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add Caesar Dressing: Pour the Caesar dressing over the seared chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken breasts, covering them generously.
- Add Asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears around the chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Season with Garlic Powder: Sprinkle garlic powder over the chicken and asparagus for an extra burst of flavor.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Homemade Caesar Dressing: While store-bought Caesar dressing is convenient, homemade Caesar dressing adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish. Try making your own with ingredients like mayonnaise, garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
- Grill Instead of Bake: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken breasts and asparagus instead of baking them. Simply grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, and the asparagus for 4-5 minutes, until charred and tender.
- Add Croutons: For a classic Caesar salad twist, sprinkle homemade or store-bought croutons over the chicken and asparagus before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make a keto-friendly version of Caesar Chicken with Asparagus, ensure that the Caesar dressing you use is low in carbohydrates or make your own keto-friendly dressing. Opt for full-fat Parmesan cheese and use a minimal amount of dressing to control carb intake.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb option, reduce the amount of Caesar dressing used or omit it altogether. Season the chicken and asparagus with a combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for flavor without added carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless? A: Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used for this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: Can I substitute other vegetables for asparagus? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts in place of asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetable you choose.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and asparagus ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
Q: Is Caesar dressing gluten-free? A: Most store-bought Caesar dressings are gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the label for any hidden gluten-containing ingredients if you have a gluten intolerance or allergy.
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus offers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is a winner. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and options for keto and low-carb adaptations, Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a must-try for any home cook. Give it a whirl in your kitchen and treat yourself to the deliciousness of this classic dish with a twist!
