Mayo Parmesan Chicken

Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously simple yet flavorful baked dish that delivers a juicy, tender chicken breast with a savory, crispy crust. The mayonnaise and Parmesan create a rich coating that locks in moisture while adding a beautiful golden brown finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe requires minimal prep but results in maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those days when you want a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and rich Parmesan cheese creates a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken. The smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness, while the garlic and onion powders deliver a savory punch. It’s a simple, fuss-free dish that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, cracked black pepper, and salt. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

4. Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.

5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the coated chicken.

6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add herbs: Experiment with adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the mayonnaise mixture for a flavor boost.

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayo-Parmesan mix for a spicy kick.

• Use other cheeses: You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyere for a different flavor profile.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Mayo Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken breasts may result in uneven cooking.

3. Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat mayonnaise, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the coating.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots around the chicken in the baking dish for a complete meal.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and mayo-Parmesan mixture ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

7. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While freshly grated Parmesan will give the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese if that’s what you have on hand.

8. Can I make this recipe without the Parmesan cheese?

The Parmesan is key to the flavor and texture of this recipe. If you must skip it, you can substitute with another hard cheese, but the result may not be the same.

9. Can I cook this recipe in a different pan?

Yes, you can use any oven-safe baking dish or even a sheet pan, as long as the chicken breasts fit in a single layer.

10. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To lower the calorie content, you can use a reduced-fat mayonnaise and reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe.

Conclusion

Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that delivers a perfectly baked chicken breast with a golden, cheesy crust. With minimal effort and a few pantry staples, this recipe is a great go-to for a quick, delicious dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

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