Get ready for a weeknight dinner winner! This mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe delivers incredibly juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. It’s a wonderfully cheesy and savory dish that will quickly become a family favorite. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it the perfect meal for busy evenings when you crave something satisfying and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken
You’re going to adore this simple mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe for so many fantastic reasons. It truly makes cooking dinner a breeze!
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these common pantry staples already.
- Quick Preparation: Spend less time in the kitchen thanks to speedy prep and bake times.
- Rich, Savory Flavor: The creamy mayonnaise and sharp parmesan create an irresistible crust.
- Moist & Tender Results: This cooking method locks in juices, ensuring every bite is succulent. The unique composition of mayonnaise, with its fat and egg content, is known to contribute to exceptionally juicy chicken breasts by locking in moisture and creating a crispy crust.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this cheesy, golden chicken.
Ingredients
To make this delightful mayonnaise parmesan chicken, you’ll need just a few key components. Gather these items for a truly satisfying meal:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally (about 1 ½ pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise, at room temperature
- 1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, shredded, divided
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adjust this creamy parmesan chicken recipe to fit your preferences. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier result. If using thicker cuts, adjust baking time. Freshly shredded parmesan cheese offers the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated works in a pinch. Feel free to use your favorite brand of mayonnaise. For seasonings, experiment with smoked paprika or a pinch of dried Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Equipment
You don’t need many special tools for this simple recipe. You will primarily need:
- A 9×13-inch baking dish or a large sheet pan
- Small and medium mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- A spatula or spoon for spreading
- A meat thermometer for accuracy
- An air fryer (optional, for alternative cooking)
How to Make Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken
Making your mayonnaise parmesan chicken is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps for a perfect, golden-brown dinner.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large sheet pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Next, prepare your chicken. Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Then, slice each breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking.
In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Mix these seasonings well. Season the chicken breasts evenly on all sides with this mixture, rubbing it in gently. Place the seasoned chicken into your prepared baking dish in a single, even layer.
Now, let’s make the flavorful topping. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise (ensure it’s at room temperature), ½ cup of the shredded parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together until it is well combined and creamy.
Spread a generous and even layer of this mayonnaise mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy; this is where all the delicious flavor and moisture come from! Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese evenly over each coated chicken breast. This creates a beautiful, golden crust.
Bake the chicken for 20-22 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken. The chicken is cooked through when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese topping is hot, bubbling, and beautifully golden brown.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let the mayonnaise parmesan chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken extra moist and tender. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Air Fryer Instructions
You can also make this delicious mayonnaise parmesan chicken in an air fryer for a crispy finish. Prepare the chicken breasts and the mayonnaise parmesan topping exactly as described above. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for doneness. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the basket, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieve the best results with your mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe every time with these helpful tips.
- Ensure Chicken is Dry: Patting chicken completely dry helps seasonings adhere and promotes a better crust.
- Room Temperature Mayonnaise: Warm mayo spreads smoother and mixes more easily with cheese.
- Press Topping Firmly: Gently press the parmesan mixture onto the chicken to help it stick during baking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give chicken pieces space in the dish for even cooking and browning.
- Golden-Brown Crust: If desired, you can briefly broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always cook chicken to 165°F (74°C) for food safety and perfect doneness. For comprehensive food safety guidance, the USDA provides detailed information on safe internal temperatures for chicken.
- Prevent Topping Slide: Don’t slice chicken too thin before coating; a sturdy base helps the topping stay put.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
This versatile mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe pairs well with many side dishes. Plus, it’s easy to store or customize.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas for a complete meal:
- Serve it alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a healthy meal.
- Pair it with a simple rice pilaf or your favorite pasta tossed with a light sauce.
- Slice it and arrange it atop a fresh, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Shred the cooked chicken and use it to fill warm rolls for a fantastic sandwich or slider.
Storage Instructions
You can easily enjoy leftovers from this creamy chicken dish.
- Refrigerate any leftover chicken promptly within two hours of cooking.
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer preservation, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating it in the oven or microwave.
Recipe Variations
Customize your mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe with these simple twists:
- Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the mayonnaise mixture for extra aromatics.
- Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a delightful spicy kick.
- Experiment with other shredded cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Swap out chicken breasts for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just remember to adjust your baking time.
- Mix a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs into the parmesan topping for an extra crunchy texture.
Nutrition Information
This mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe provides a satisfying and flavorful meal.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbs | 2g |
These values are estimates per serving for the mayonnaise parmesan chicken. They can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods. For precise figures, we recommend using a reliable online nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Yes, you can use pre-grated parmesan, but freshly shredded will melt better and give a creamier texture. Pre-grated often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Why did my topping slide off?
This usually happens if the chicken wasn’t patted dry enough or if the topping was too thin. Ensure chicken is very dry and press the topping gently onto the surface.
Is the recipe too salty?
The recipe is balanced, but if you’re sensitive to salt, reduce the amount in the chicken seasoning by half. You can always add more to taste after cooking.
Can I use Miracle Whip?
Miracle Whip has a tangier, sweeter flavor than mayonnaise, so it will alter the taste significantly. We recommend sticking to real mayonnaise for this specific mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe.
What internal temperature is safe?
Chicken is safely cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken works, but it will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Conclusion
There you have it – a truly simple yet incredibly delicious mayonnaise parmesan chicken recipe that promises juicy, flavorful results every time. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy dinner solution that doesn’t compromise on taste. Give this fantastic recipe a try tonight and watch it become a regular in your meal rotation. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your thoughts and photos!
Delicious Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder; mix these seasonings well.
- Season the sliced chicken breasts evenly on all sides with the seasoning mixture and arrange them in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup of the shredded parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Evenly spread the mayonnaise mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle an equal amount of the remaining parmesan cheese over each chicken breast.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is hot and bubbling.