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If you are searching for a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, you’ve found it with this Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a creamy Parmesan herb coating that creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers luscious, flavorful chicken that practically melts the moment it touches your tongue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in the final flavor and texture. From the creamy mayonnaise that keeps the chicken moist to the savory Parmesan cheese that adds richness, every component is essential.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star ingredient; ensure they are of similar size for even cooking.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Provides moisture and a creamy base for the herb coating.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the herbs.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers a subtle, savory depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: A little bit of spice to enhance all flavors.
- 1 tsp seasoned salt (or to taste): Gives a balanced salty kick and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or dried thyme (optional): Invokes the classic herbaceous flavors that pair beautifully with Parmesan.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (optional for a crispy top): Adds irresistible crunch if you prefer texture contrast.
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional): Brings a burst of color and freshness to finish the dish.
How to Make Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which ensures your chicken will bake evenly and cook through perfectly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with aluminum foil to make cleanup a breeze at the end of your cooking adventure.
Step 2: Ready the Chicken Breasts
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this simple step helps the mayonnaise mixture stick better and promotes even browning. Arrange the chicken neatly in the prepared baking dish so every piece has enough space to cook through without steaming.
Step 3: Mix the Parmesan Herb Coating
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, seasoned salt, and dried Italian herbs if you’re using them. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, the creamy texture will envelop each chicken breast with rich flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Spread that glorious Parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast, completely covering the surface to lock in moisture and infuse every bite with incredible flavor. If you’re craving texture, sprinkle the optional panko bread crumbs on top to create a golden, crispy crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and let the magic happen for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat chicken with a golden brown top that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you adore a crunchy finish, place the chicken under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes after baking. Watch it closely, because that last few minutes will give you a lovely golden crust without burning your masterpiece.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once baked to perfection, take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to rest a few minutes to let the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness that brightens each serving.
How to Serve Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley or chives add just the right touch to this Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe, consider adding a lemon wedge for a hint of citrusy brightness. It’s a simple finishing touch that livens up the richness of the Parmesan and mayonnaise crust.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs exquisitely with a variety of sides. Light and fresh options like a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus beautifully balance the richness, while creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery risotto echo the comforting textures of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor at dinner parties, slice the chicken and fan it out on a platter with drizzles of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve atop a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables to turn this simple recipe into a gourmet experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe retains its flavor and tenderness even after chilling, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze the cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months and can be quickly thawed for future meals without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, warm the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes to preserve the crispy topping. Avoid microwaving to maintain that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and easy coating, you can use bone-in breasts; just increase the baking time and check for doneness accordingly.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy. The texture might differ slightly but the overall taste will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is key for moisture and creaminess, but you can try substituting with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier twist that still keeps the chicken tender.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayonnaise mixture for a gentle kick that complements the Parmesan and herbs perfectly.
Is it possible to cook this recipe on the grill?
This recipe is designed for the oven to achieve even cooking with the Parmesan crust. However, you could try grilling with foil packets; just be mindful that the topping won’t get as crispy as in the oven.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and satisfying about this Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe that makes it an instant favorite. It’s effortless to prepare yet so flavorful and tender that you’ll want to make it again and again. Give it a try and watch your friends and family fall in love with this simple but decadent dish!
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Print
Melt In Your Mouth Parmesan Herb Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 40m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection with a creamy parmesan and mayonnaise topping. The optional panko breadcrumb crust adds a delightful crunch, making it a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp seasoned salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or dried thyme (optional)
Crispy Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with aluminum foil to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup later.
- Arrange Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, ground black pepper, seasoned salt, and Italian herbs if using. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Coat Chicken: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring they are completely covered to keep the chicken moist and flavorful during baking.
- Add Crispy Topping (Optional): For a crunchy crust, sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the mayonnaise-coated chicken breasts.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For a golden finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can use dried thyme instead of Italian herbs if preferred.
- Using panko breadcrumbs is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture on top.
- Make sure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Resting the chicken after baking helps retain moisture.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
