Introduction
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a flavorful, creamy, and protein-packed meal that brings together juicy chicken breasts and crisp-tender asparagus under a savory Caesar dressing glaze. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish turns pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy dinner — all baked in a single dish for easy prep and cleanup.
It’s comfort food made weeknight-easy, perfect for when you want something rich but balanced.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
The Caesar salad originated in Tijuana, Mexico in the 1920s, created by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. Known for its bold, garlicky dressing made with Parmesan, anchovies, and lemon, Caesar dressing has become a global favorite.
This recipe reimagines Caesar salad as a baked entrée, pairing its signature flavor with lean chicken and fiber-rich asparagus. It reflects the modern culinary trend of transforming classic dressings into creamy sauces for warm dishes, blending convenience with nostalgia.
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Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Fresh parsley or lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
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Optional Additions
Add lemon zest or fresh lemon juice for brightness
Sprinkle panko or crushed croutons on top for crunch
Mix in cherry tomatoes or sliced mushrooms
Use Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing for a lighter version
Add a layer of mozzarella or provolone cheese for extra creaminess
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Tips for Success
Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking
Trim woody ends of asparagus for best texture
Don’t overbake — chicken is done at 165°F (74°C) internal temp
For extra crispiness, broil the top for 1–2 minutes at the end
Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness
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Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Sear (Optional but Recommended)
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step adds flavor but can be skipped for time-saving.
4. Assemble the Dish
Place chicken in the baking dish. Arrange asparagus around the chicken. Pour Caesar dressing evenly over everything. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F and asparagus is tender-crisp.
6. Broil (Optional)
Broil for 2 minutes at the end to brown the top.
7. Garnish & Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
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Description
Rich, creamy, and full of umami, Caesar Chicken with Asparagus delivers on every front. The Caesar dressing transforms into a velvety, savory sauce that keeps the chicken moist and seasons the asparagus as it roasts. It’s indulgent without being heavy, and the pop of green makes it feel fresh and balanced.
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Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx.)
Calories: 400–450
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 6–8g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 700–900mg
Based on full-fat Caesar dressing and ½ cup Parmesan.
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a smart, satisfying solution for busy nights when you want something both flavorful and nutritious. It’s an elegant twist on the familiar, and its minimal ingredients and cleanup make it even more lovable.
Pair it with a glass of white wine, a light pasta, or quinoa for a well-rounded dinner. It also reheats well for meal prep!
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this meal even more health-conscious:
Use low-fat or Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing
Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast (for dairy-free)
Add more veggies like zucchini or spinach
Serve over cauliflower rice or with whole grains
Choose organic or pasture-raised chicken for better quality