Caesar Chicken and Asparagus

This Caesar Chicken with Asparagus has become my go-to for weeknight dinners when I want something savory but do not have hours to cook. Tender chicken breasts soak up creamy Caesar dressing while fresh asparagus roasts alongside everything and the whole skillet is crowned with nutty Parmesan cheese. It is hearty yet bright with a zesty finish and delivers comfort that feels light enough for any day.

I first tried this on a chilly Friday when I only had chicken and asparagus left in my fridge. My husband called it restaurant quality and now asks for it anytime I bring home asparagus.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: create a lean and juicy base. Look for plump pieces without too much liquid for best sear
• Salt and pepper: foundational seasoning draws out flavors
• Olive oil: helps build a golden crust on the chicken and adds richness. Extra virgin olive oil brings the most flavor
• Caesar dressing: classic tangy flavor. A good-quality store-bought bottle works, but homemade is next-level
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty sharpness and becomes wonderfully melty under the heat. Always choose fresh grated over the shelf-stable kind
• Asparagus spears: roast beautifully and add color and crunch. Look for bright green stalks that are firm not limp
• Garlic powder: simple umami boost that ties the dressing and veggies together
• Lemon wedges: finishing touch of citrus to cut through the richness and brighten the entire dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius so it is hot and ready by the time your prep is done. Even heat ensures the chicken stays juicy but cooks through

Season the Chicken:

Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each chicken breast. Use your hands to press the seasoning into the surface so every bite is flavorful

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers lay in the chicken breasts. Let them cook undisturbed for three to four minutes per side until a golden crust forms. This step locks in moisture. Remove from heat but do not clean out the skillet

Add Caesar Dressing:

Pour the Caesar dressing directly over the chicken making sure each breast is fully coated. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top so it will form a tasty crust

Arrange Asparagus:

Take the trimmed asparagus and nestle it around the chicken pieces in the skillet. Dust the asparagus with garlic powder and if you want extra flavor scatter more Parmesan over the tops

Bake:

Carefully slide the entire pan into your preheated oven. Bake for twenty minutes until the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius and the asparagus is just fork-tender. The cheese will bubble slightly and dressing will thicken into a sauce

Serve:

Remove the skillet and let everything rest for a few minutes so juices redistribute. Squeeze fresh lemon juice all over the chicken and asparagus before serving to make the flavors pop

Pin it

Whenever I use fresh Parmesan for this dish, I think of the time my little one grated almost half the block onto his plate, declaring it the best part. It is now the official family rule to let everyone sprinkle extra cheese as they like.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the juicy texture of the chicken. Avoid freezing as the dressing can separate and become grainy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Try broccolini or green beans instead of asparagus when they are in season. For dairy-free, use a vegan Caesar dressing and almond-based cheese

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. It is also perfect alongside a crisp green salad or crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken breasts juicy?

Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then bake just until cooked through for tender results.

→ Can I use homemade Caesar instead?

Yes, a homemade Caesar dressing works well and lets you control freshness and ingredients.

→ What is the best way to trim asparagus?

Snap or cut off the woody ends where the stalk bends naturally for a tender bite.

→ How can I lighten this dish?

Substitute reduced-fat Caesar or Greek yogurt-based dressing for fewer calories and a fresher taste.

→ What sides go well with this meal?

Pair with roasted potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded dinner.