Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe offers tender, juicy chicken breasts coated with a creamy Parmesan and mayonnaise mixture, baked to golden perfection. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner that delights with every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping
- ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pound the Chicken: Even out the thickness of the chicken breasts by pounding them to approximately ¾ inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Prepare the Coating: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until you get a smooth, even mixture.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread the mayonnaise and cheese mixture generously and evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
- Add Optional Seasoning: Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the tops with optional paprika or Italian seasoning if desired for an extra layer of flavor and color.
- Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and slightly crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
Notes
- Using plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise lowers the fat content for a healthier option.
- Make sure to pound the chicken evenly to prevent undercooked or dry areas.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness precisely and avoid overcooking.
- The optional paprika or Italian seasoning adds a nice touch of flavor and color but can be omitted if desired.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps retain its moisture and enhances tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
