This is Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken that is sure to become a family favorite if it isn’t already—it’s incredibly tender, juicy and flavourful. The chicken breasts get slathered in a creamy blend of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese and seasonings, which forms a crisp-flavored crust as it bakes. Made with few ingredients and in a handful of steps, it is perfect for weeknight cooking or when you need comfort food.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chicken breasts are a lean, tender base for the dish. You could also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
The mayonnaise brings creaminess and also aids in forming the crisp cheesy crust. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute if you need to slim down your calorie intake.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor to the chicken while baking to create a perfectly crispy texture.
1 tsp seasoning salt
Seasoning salt provides lots of flavor with just one spice. However much you like, depending on your taste.
1/2 tsp black pepper
Mildly spicy black pepper binds everything to the richness of the mayonnaise and the cheese.
1 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a savory, aromatic flavor that helps to round out the overall flavor of the dish.
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Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
In the meantime preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray or lightly oil a baking dish to keep your casserole from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board and, if they are thick, pound them gently with a meat mallet to make them an even thickness. This is ensuring even cooking and tenderness.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a small bowl mix the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), the Parmesan cheese, seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix in until a creamy, cheesy mixture forms.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast so they are coated on top with the creamy topping. This will create a golden, flavorful crust when the chicken is baked.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Put the breaded chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of the chicken should be 165°F or 74°C).
If you want a crispier top, you can turn on broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Serve
Take the chicken out of the oven and rest for a minute or so before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra tender.
Serving and Storage Tips:
To Serve: This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken is delicious served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad — the choice is yours! It works well with rice or pasta, too.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly in the oven or microwave so as not to dry the chicken out.
Helpful Notes:
Greek Yogurt Alternative: Using greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise provides a lighter and tangy flavor but the same creamy texture. Either choice works fine, so it’s your call.
Add Herbs: For extra flavor, mix in some chopped fresh herbs — like parsley, thyme, or rosemary — to the mayo mixture before coating your chicken.
Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness means they’ll all cook at the same rate, so one part doesn’t dry out while another remains rubbery raw.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
Chef Bobby Flay: “Make sure to season each layer as you build. Even a humble dish like this is elevated if each element is well-seasoned.”
Chef Ina Garten: “Resting the chicken after it’s baked allows it to remain juicy. Slicing into it too quickly will let the juices spill out, leaving it dry.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes! You can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll have to tweak the cooking time. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165F (74C).
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prep the chicken and coating mixture a day ahead of time. Keep them apart in the fridge, and when you’re ready, batter the chicken and bake as directed.
Q3: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
A3: You can use Pecorino Romano, or Asiago, even sharp cheddar cheese, though Parmesan’s sharp, nutty flavor works best.
Q4: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A4: Avoid overbaking the chicken. Instead, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and pull the chicken out of the oven when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q5: Can I add other spices or seasonings?
A5: Absolutely, please do. Try adding a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor.
Q6: Can I use this recipe with chicken thighs?
A6: Yes, you can. Chicken thighs are less dry and forgiving, and you can bake them slightly longer; the results will be great.
Q7: How can I make the topping crispier?
A7: To achieve that, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Additionally, you can put some breadcrumbs into the mayo mixture for a crunchier texture.
Q8: Can I freeze this dish?
A8: It’s not recommended to freeze after baking due to the topping, which may not reheat well. However, you can freeze the raw chicken coated in the mixture and then bake it straight from the freezer, ensuring you extend the baking time.
Q9: What if I don’t have seasoning salt?
A9: Mix some salt, paprika, and a pinch of onion or garlic powder to create a simple seasoning blend.
Q10: Can I use a low-fat option?
A10: Yes! For an even healthier option that still remains rich and delicious, use low fat Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise.
This melt-in-your-mouth chicken recipe is an incredibly easy, foolproof way to have tender, juicy chicken, with zero effort! The Parmesan-mayo topping forms a golden, flavorful crust that complements whatever side you might serve. Whether you have a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish will become a regular in your recipe rotation!
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or oil.
- If chicken breasts are thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast to coat them well.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Optionally, broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispier top.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.