If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining creamy mayonnaise with sharp Parmesan and flavorful spices, it creates an irresistible coating that bakes up golden and delicious every time. With tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, cheesy crust, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want to impress without stress. Trust me, once you try this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dinner favorites.

Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity, using a handful of ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the creamy mayo that keeps the chicken moist to the Parmesan cheese that adds a savory punch, every component plays a crucial role. These ingredients are both accessible and essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean and versatile base for this dish, ensuring tender, juicy meat.
½ cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind the Parmesan and spices to the chicken.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the mixture with a savory depth without overpowering it.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat and aromatic touch.
½ teaspoon paprika: Brings a hint of smokiness and vibrant color.
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional): Creates a delightful crunchy topping for extra texture.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbaceous garnish to brighten the dish.

How to Make Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, setting you up for success from the very beginning.

Step 2: Combine the Mayo-Parmesan Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This mixture is the heart of the recipe, infusing the chicken with creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then, generously spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture over the top of each piece, making sure they’re completely covered. This coating locks in moisture and creates that gorgeous golden crust.

Step 4: Add Crunch with Breadcrumbs

If you want to amp up the texture, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the coated chicken. This step adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat underneath.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Juicy

Bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is both safe to eat and perfectly cooked — juicy inside with a crispy topping outside.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite deliciously moist. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

How to Serve Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a natural choice to garnish this dish, as its bright flavor contrasts with the richness of the chicken. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or some thinly sliced green onions for an added layer of freshness and zing.

Side Dishes

The creamy, savory flavors of this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance richness with vibrant textures. A simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs is another crowd-friendly option.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the baked chicken and serve it over a bed of creamy risotto or quinoa salad. You can also assemble it into hearty sandwiches or wraps with fresh lettuce and tomato, turning your Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe into a delicious lunch or picnic option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mayo Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken breasts with the mayo-Parmesan crust, but keep in mind the texture of the crust may soften after freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for best results. Use within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to help maintain the crispy topping. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan is ideal for its nutty flavor and crisping ability, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different taste. Just keep in mind these cheeses have varying saltiness and melting behaviors.

Is mayonnaise necessary in this recipe?

Yes, mayonnaise plays a crucial role in keeping the chicken moist and helping the Parmesan-based topping adhere to the meat. You could substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the texture will be slightly different.

Can I prepare this recipe without breadcrumbs?

Absolutely. The breadcrumbs are optional for extra crunch, but the dish is delicious even without them thanks to the creamy and cheesy mayo mixture that crisps beautifully on its own.

How can I tell when the chicken is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The topping will be golden and bubbling, and the chicken should feel firm but juicy.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free. The flavor will be different but can still deliver a tasty meal.

Final Thoughts

This Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary lineup, balancing simplicity with irresistible flavor. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and special, sure to bring smiles at any dining table. Give it a try and discover just how easy it is to create a golden, juicy chicken dinner that everyone will rave about.

Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 76 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Mayo Parmesan Chicken recipe offers a succulent and flavorful twist on classic baked chicken breasts. Coated with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and savory spices, then optionally topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, this dish bakes to a golden perfection that’s juicy inside and crisp outside. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, it serves four and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Coating Mixture

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika

Optional Topping

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)

Garnish

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make the mayo-Parmesan mixture: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well until evenly mixed to create a flavorful coating.
Prepare the chicken: Place the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish.
Coat chicken with mixture: Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage.
Add breadcrumbs (optional): If you prefer a crunchier texture, sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the coated chicken breasts.
Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Rest and garnish: Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley as a garnish before serving.

Notes

For juicier chicken, consider letting the coated chicken sit for 10 minutes before baking to allow flavors to meld.
Using panko breadcrumbs can provide extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
You can substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking; pounding thinner if necessary.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American