Is there anything more comforting than a delicious, cheesy dish that combines savory chicken and crisp asparagus? I think not! I can’t tell you how many times this Caesar Chicken with Asparagus recipe has saved me during those busy weeknights when I just didn’t know what to make for dinner. It’s quick, easy, and it always impresses! Plus, this recipe brings back fond memories of cooking with my sister, who used to chuck all sorts of things together in the oven and somehow always created magic.
What makes this dish so unique is not just the creamy Caesar dressing coating the chicken but also the addition of fresh asparagus. It’s like a celebration of flavors and textures wrapped in one hearty meal. And let me tell you, your family and friends are going to think you spent hours on it, but it’ll be our little secret that it took just a few minutes of prep time—wink, wink!
What’s in Caesar Chicken with Asparagus?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this recipe such a winner:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The main star of this dish! They’re lean, easy to cook, and perfect for soaking up all that zesty Caesar flavor.
Asparagus: These vibrant green spears add a delightful crunch and freshness. Plus, they’re super healthy!
Caesar Salad Dressing: The secret sauce! I love using a good quality dressing—homemade if I have the time, but store-bought works great for busy nights.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: What’s a baked dish without a generous helping of melted cheese? It adds creaminess and a lovely golden topping.
Frozen Peas (optional): Little bursts of sweetness that complement the dish beautifully. I usually add them when I want an extra pop of color and flavor!
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper, and Salt: These are the essentials that elevate the flavor profile of the dish. Just the right balance!
Fresh Parsley: Not just for looks! This adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the whole dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle to get everything cooking beautifully.
Is Caesar Chicken with Asparagus Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish can be pretty healthy, especially if you make a few adjustments. Here are the benefits and considerations:
Chicken: It’s packed with protein, aiding in muscle building and repair. Using boneless, skinless chicken keeps the fat content low too.
Asparagus: A great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
Caesar Dressing: While it does add some calories and fat, look for options that don’t contain added sugars or preservatives.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides calcium, but keep an eye on the amount if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
Overall, this dish is a wholesome option, especially when served with a salad and whole grain if you want to round out the meal.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup Caesar salad dressing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil (for drizzling)
– Salt to taste
Serves: 4
How to Make Caesar Chicken with Asparagus?
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, drizzle a little olive oil to coat the bottom.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the Caesar salad dressing evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
5. Arrange the asparagus spears around the chicken in the baking dish.
6. If using, scatter the frozen peas across the dish.
7. Top the chicken and asparagus with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
11. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Delicious Tips and Serving Suggestions
If you want to jazz this dish up a little, try adding some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the mix—they’ll add a lovely pop of color and extra sweetness! Also, if you’re a fan of spicy food, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving to give it a kick.
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or over a bed of quinoa for a heartier option. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad for that perfect balance of flavors.
I hope you give this Caesar Chicken with Asparagus a try! It’s truly an effortless dish with plenty of flavor and charm. After you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!
