Caesar Chicken Thighs Recipe
Introduction
Caesar Chicken Thighs offer a delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad flavors, transforming them into a hearty and satisfying main dish. With crispy skin and a creamy, cheesy topping, this recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the flour, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Lightly coat each chicken thigh with this flour mixture.
- Step 3: Pour the Caesar dressing into another small bowl. Dip each floured chicken thigh into the dressing, making sure it is covered on all sides, then place them in a baking dish lightly coated with cooking spray.
- Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the coated chicken thighs.
- Step 5: Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F and the juices run clear when pierced.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Swap parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the flour mix for a hint of heat.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Storage
Store leftover Caesar Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness, or microwave covered for 1-2 minutes if short on time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative and choose a dairy-free Caesar dressing to make the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
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Caesar Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delicious Caesar Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a flavorful blend of Italian seasoning and garlic powder, dipped in creamy Caesar dressing, and topped with Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a savory twist on classic Caesar flavors and makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on)
Coating
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the chicken thighs.
- Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This will create a flavorful, lightly seasoned coating for the chicken.
- Coat Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken thigh with the flour mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Dip in Dressing: Pour the Caesar dressing into another small bowl. Dip each flour-coated chicken thigh into the dressing, coating thoroughly on all sides.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the coated chicken thighs into a baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Parmesan: Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the coated chicken thighs.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear when pierced.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your flavorful Caesar Chicken Thighs!
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best flavor and moisture, but skinless can be used if preferred.
- For a crispier finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caesar chicken thighs, baked chicken thighs, Parmesan chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy Caesar chicken, Italian seasoning chicken
