If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy baked chicken dish that feels indulgent without a fuss, this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the luscious tang of mayonnaise with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese to create a golden, flavorful crust that locks in juicy, tender chicken breasts. This dish is a perfect quick fix for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. The blend of aromatics like garlic and paprika adds a subtle kick, making every bite utterly delicious and crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is key to this recipe’s charm. Each component plays a vital role in building the creamy, savory, and slightly crispy texture that makes this dish so special. From the mild richness of mayonnaise to the sharp Parmesan, these ingredients provide an irresistible flavor balance.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that becomes tender and juicy under the rich topping.
- Mayonnaise: Offers creaminess and helps keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth and helps form a beautifully browned crust.
- Garlic powder: Provides a warm, aromatic punch without overpowering.
- Onion powder: Enhances savory notes and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and a gorgeous reddish hue.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): For a little extra crunch on top, perfect if you love crispy textures.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish visually and in taste.
How to Make Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and arrange your chicken breasts in a single even layer. This ensures uniform cooking and makes the next steps mess-free and simple.
Step 2: Mix the flavorful topping
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the magic behind the Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe’s creamy, tangy, and savory crust. Mix thoroughly so the flavors meld well.
Step 3: Coat the chicken
Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. This coating locks in moisture and guarantees that classic golden finish we love. If you want an added crunch, now is the time to sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
Step 4: Bake until perfectly golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. To keep things juicy, avoid overbaking and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.
How to Serve Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, cheesy topping. For a twist, you can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan right before serving to enhance the cheesy experience.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to keep the meal light and balanced. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice are also phenomenal companions, soaking up any extra cheesy sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try slicing the chicken breasts diagonally and fanning them out on a platter with the garnishes and sides arranged artfully. Using vibrant serving dishes elevates the look, but honestly, this dish shines just as brightly straight from the oven for a cozy family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe freezes well. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is fine for a quick fix, but the oven helps retain the crispy topping best.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier and more forgiving during baking. Adjust cooking time slightly if your thighs are thicker for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
While Parmesan cheese is a key flavor component, you can substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to retain some cheesiness. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise as well to keep it fully dairy-free.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Adding a layer of breadcrumbs over the mayonnaise-Parmesan mixture before baking will create a pleasing crunch. You can also lightly drizzle the topping with olive oil for a golden finish.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the mayo-Parmesan topping and coat the chicken breasts, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve to keep the topping crisp and fresh.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, the Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you skip the breadcrumbs. It’s a great choice for low-carb and keto-friendly meal plans.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about this Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe that makes it a staple in my home cooking. It delivers big on flavor with minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is a reliable, delicious crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Give it a go and enjoy a creamy, golden-baked delight with every bite!
Print
Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless breasts topped with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and spices. This easy recipe yields juicy, cheesy chicken with a golden crust, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Topping
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the greased baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and evenly blended.
- Apply Topping: Spread the mayonnaise and Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, coating completely for a flavorful crust.
- Add Breadcrumbs (Optional): For a crispier finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the topped chicken breasts.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the topping has turned golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use light mayonnaise to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- This recipe works well with chicken thighs as an alternative to breasts for a juicier option.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mayonnaise mixture before spreading.
