Caesar Chicken with Asparagus

Caesar chicken with asparagus is a quick, creamy, and satisfying one-pan meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. I love how this dish brings together juicy, seasoned chicken, crisp-tender asparagus, and a rich Caesar-inspired sauce that’s tangy, savory, and perfectly balanced. It’s comforting without being heavy and comes together in just one skillet—less mess, more flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, fast, and packed with that classic Caesar dressing flavor. The chicken stays moist and flavorful, the asparagus adds freshness and crunch, and everything gets coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings the whole dish together. It’s also low in carbs, high in protein, and easy to customize depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Garlic, minced

• Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Fresh asparagus, trimmed

• Lemon juice (optional)

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. I remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I add the garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I lower the heat to medium, add the asparagus, and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.

5. I pour in the Caesar dressing and stir in the parmesan cheese, letting the sauce bubble gently and thicken slightly.

6. I return the chicken to the pan, spoon some sauce over the top, and let everything warm together for a couple of minutes.

7. I finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes if I want a little extra brightness or heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25–30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness. I’ve also added cherry tomatoes or spinach to the pan for extra veggies. If I want to make it creamier, I stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or heavy cream with the dressing. And for extra crunch, I sprinkle crushed croutons or toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I keep the chicken and asparagus in an airtight container and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. To keep the sauce creamy, I add a splash of water or a bit more dressing when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade Caesar dressing?

Yes, I often use a homemade version with mayo, garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, and parmesan. It adds even more flavor and richness.

Can I roast the asparagus separately?

Absolutely. I sometimes roast the asparagus at 400°F for about 10 minutes while the chicken cooks, especially if I want extra browning and crisp tips.

What’s the best way to make sure the chicken stays juicy?

I avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and pulling the chicken at 165°F. Resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing also helps retain juices.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, I use a dairy-free Caesar dressing and skip the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. The flavor is still bold and satisfying.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. I portion the chicken and asparagus into containers and keep the sauce separate or drizzled lightly. It reheats well for lunches throughout the week.

Conclusion

Caesar chicken with asparagus is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings bold taste and freshness to the table with minimal effort. It’s creamy, savory, and loaded with protein and veggies—all in one skillet. Whether I’m cooking for the family or prepping for the week, this dish is one of my favorite ways to keep dinner both delicious and easy.