Description
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts baked to perfection under a creamy, flavorful Parmesan and mayonnaise topping infused with garlic, onion, and paprika. It’s an easy, comforting dish perfect for a family dinner, offering a juicy and delicious experience with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.
- Dry the Chicken: Use a paper towel to pat the chicken breasts dry, removing excess moisture which helps the topping adhere better and ensures even cooking.
- Make the Creamy Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients form a smooth and flavorful mixture.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts neatly into the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Apply the Topping: Evenly spread the creamy Parmesan mixture over the top of each chicken breast, covering them thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier topping option without compromising creaminess.
- Optional additions like dried Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, or crushed red pepper flakes can be mixed into the topping for extra flavor and spice.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to avoid dryness; using a meat thermometer is recommended for perfect results.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.