This recipe elevates the humble baked chicken breast to new heights with a creamy, cheesy, and surprisingly simple mayo-parmesan topping. Forget dry, bland chicken – this method ensures a juicy, flavorful result every time. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or even a sophisticated yet effortless lunch.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The magic lies in the mayonnaise-parmesan crust. Mayonnaise acts as a binder, creating a wonderfully crispy and golden-brown topping while keeping the chicken incredibly moist. The parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite that complements the mild flavor of the chicken. It's a simple technique that delivers impressive results, surpassing the dryness often associated with baked chicken breasts.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for best results)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
- Combine Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread the mayonnaise-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Bake: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use a reduced-fat mayonnaise and opt for part-skim Parmesan cheese to slightly reduce the fat and calorie content. Adding vegetables to the baking dish, such as broccoli or asparagus, also boosts the nutritional value.
Can I use other cheeses in this recipe?
While Parmesan is ideal for its sharp flavor and melting properties, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend of cheeses.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise-Parmesan mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. You can also assemble the chicken breasts with the topping and refrigerate them overnight, baking them the next day.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. You can also check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the chicken with a fork; the juices should run clear.
What can I serve with this baked chicken?
This baked chicken breast is incredibly versatile. Serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite pasta dish.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the chicken breasts have enough space to cook evenly.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh element to the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your preference.
This baked chicken breast with mayo-parmesan is a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. Its ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and versatility make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
