Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece, where crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken meets the unexpected elegance of roasted romaine. This isn't just another weeknight meal—it's a culinary adventure that will elevate your dinner game and impress even the most discerning food lovers. With just 40 minutes between you and an incredible Italian-inspired feast, prepare to experience a recipe that's as easy to make as it is stunning to serve.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps ensure better seasoning adherence and crispier coating.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Spread grated Parmesan cheese on a flat plate. Press each chicken breast into the Parmesan, coating both sides evenly with a thick layer of cheese.
- Place Parmesan-coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to help achieve golden browning.
- Bake chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 18-22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is golden and crispy.
- While chicken is baking, prepare romaine lettuce by cutting lengthwise. Arrange lettuce halves on a separate baking sheet.
- Drizzle romaine halves with Caesar dressing and a light touch of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- During the last 5-7 minutes of chicken cooking, place romaine in the oven to roast until edges are slightly charred and wilted.
- Remove both chicken and romaine from oven. Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
- Plate roasted romaine and top with Parmesan chicken. Optionally, drizzle additional Caesar dressing if desired.
Tips
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry before coating to ensure maximum Parmesan cheese adherence and a crispier exterior.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting properties—pre-packaged shredded cheese won't provide the same crispy coating.
- Monitor your oven temperature carefully; every oven can vary slightly, so start checking your chicken at the 18-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Italian herbs to your Parmesan coating.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to help retain its juices, ensuring each bite remains tender and succulent.
- Choose romaine hearts for the most consistent roasting and presentation—they hold up better under high heat.
- Don't skip drizzling olive oil on both chicken and romaine; it helps achieve that gorgeous golden color and adds rich flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
