Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that impresses with both flavor and ease, Mayo Parmesan Chicken is about to become your new go-to recipe. This dish transforms humble chicken breasts into tender, juicy bites enveloped in a lusciously creamy, cheesy topping with subtle hints of garlic and Italian herbs. Every forkful of Mayo Parmesan Chicken delivers big, comforting flavors with barely any effort, making it perfect for anyone who wants restaurant-worthy results straight from their own oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of basic but powerhouse ingredients, Mayo Parmesan Chicken comes together in minutes. Each addition brings its own unique texture and flavor, resulting in a chicken dinner you’ll crave again and again.

• Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for maximum ease and tenderness; try to pick pieces of similar thickness for even cooking.
• Mayonnaise: The surprising secret ingredient that keeps the chicken juicy and forms a rich, creamy crust.
• Parmesan Cheese: Go for freshly grated if you can for a meltier, more intense cheese flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds warmth and classic savory notes to complement the cheese.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses each bite with fragrant, mellow garlic flavor, no chopping required.
• Onion Powder: A pinch deepens the overall taste and gives a subtle sweetness.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste to bring all the flavors together and balance the richness.

How to Make Mayo Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Get things started by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is just right for coaxing the chicken into juicy perfection while ensuring the cheesy topping develops a gorgeous golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spray your favorite baking dish lightly with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures easy clean-up and keeps every last bit of that delicious crust on your chicken, not stuck to the pan.

Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Topping

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together until it’s a creamy, fragrant blend. This mayo-Parmesan mix is truly the heart of Mayo Parmesan Chicken, infusing moisture and flavor into every bite.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts flat in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Try not to overcrowd them; a little space between each one helps the heat circulate for even cooking.

Step 5: Dollop and Spread the Topping

Spoon a generous dollop of the mayo-Parmesan mixture over each chicken breast. Use the back of your spoon or a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, making sure the chicken is completely covered. This is where the magic of Mayo Parmesan Chicken truly begins!

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the oven’s middle rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is beautifully golden and the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken hits at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A quick sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a bit of chopped parsley on top adds a lovely finishing touch.

How to Serve Mayo Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just as the chicken comes out of the oven amps up the savory vibe, while a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil brightens up the plate with color and a burst of herbal freshness.

Side Dishes

Mayo Parmesan Chicken pairs well with so many things. Fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles soak up that creamy sauce perfectly. Light salads, roasted green beans, garlic bread, or even classic steamed broccoli are all standout sides for this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn weeknight dinner into something special by plating your Mayo Parmesan Chicken on a bed of warm orzo or risotto, or slice it and top a big, hearty Caesar salad for a twist on the usual. Leftovers can be tucked into sandwiches or wraps for a dreamy next-day lunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the Mayo Parmesan Chicken has cooled, cover the baking dish or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the topping as intact as possible.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled chicken portions individually and place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a covered baking dish and warm in a 325-degree oven until heated through. The topping stays creamy if you reheat gently instead of using the microwave, which can sometimes make chicken rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will be extra juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the baking time since thighs are thinner and may cook a bit faster.

Is there a lighter alternative to mayonnaise?

You can easily swap with Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and a little mayonnaise. The flavor will be tangier, but still creamy and delicious.

Can I prep Mayo Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything except the baking step and store, covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake. This makes it an excellent dish for entertaining or busy nights.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! Mix up a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme in equal parts. Even just a pinch of any one of them will add great flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The easiest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken; when it reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re good to go! The topping should also look golden and slightly bubbly.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Mayo Parmesan Chicken has countless fans: it delivers big on comfort and taste with a tiny amount of work. I hope you give this recipe a try, and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen too. Happy cooking and even happier savoring!

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