Description
Caesar Chicken with Asparagus is a quick and easy dinner recipe that combines tender chicken breasts marinated in classic Caesar dressing with fresh, crisp asparagus. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy and flavorful dish offers a perfect balance of lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and zesty, tangy flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it can be customized to suit various dietary preferences while requiring minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
Marinade & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the Caesar dressing, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will tenderize and flavor the chicken while adding a delicious coating to the asparagus.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and gently toss them to ensure an even coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Prep the asparagus: While the chicken marinates, trim the woody ends of the asparagus. Lightly drizzle asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor when cooked.
- Cook the chicken and asparagus: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts and asparagus on a baking sheet or grill pan. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender yet crisp.
- Add finishing touches: Remove from oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the warm chicken and asparagus. The cheese will melt slightly, adding creamy, salty richness to the dish.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken: Allow chicken to come to room temperature before marinating for more even cooking.
- Don’t overcook asparagus: Roast asparagus just until bright green and tender to maintain crispness.
- Marinate longer if possible: For stronger flavors, marinate chicken up to 2 hours ahead.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers better aroma and flavor than pre-minced varieties.
- Rest the chicken: Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg