Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a creamy Parmesan and mayo mixture, baked to perfection with an optional crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy, flavorful dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating Mixture:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended, creating a flavorful and creamy coating for the chicken.
- Coat Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spread the coating mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. If you desire a crispy topping, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs over the coated chicken.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until an internal thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C), indicating the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Optional Broil for Crispiness: To get a golden and slightly crispy crust, switch the oven to broil mode and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can reduce calories and add a slight tang while keeping the chicken moist.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; you can pound them gently if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature without drying out.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but add a nice crunch; panko breadcrumbs work especially well for crispiness.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps retain its juices for maximum tenderness.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.
