Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken
Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously simple dish featuring seasoned chicken breasts topped with a creamy parmesan-mayo mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a cheesy crust, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short cook time, this dish is perfect for busy schedules.
- Flavorful and Juicy: The mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist, while the parmesan adds a savory depth.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course, slice it for salads, or use it in sandwiches.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both adults and kids, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.
- Air Fryer Option: For a crispier texture, this recipe can also be prepared in an air fryer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 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
For the Mayonnaise Mixture:
- ½ cup mayonnaise, at room temperature
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with cooking spray.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the chicken breasts evenly on all sides with this mixture. Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Prepare Mayonnaise Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ½ cup of the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of parmesan cheese over the mayonnaise layer on each piece of chicken.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is hot and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute parmesan with Romano, pecorino, or asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add Italian seasoning or fresh basil to the mayonnaise mixture for an herby twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the mayo mixture for added heat.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese layer before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or reheat in an air fryer for a crispier texture.
FAQs
What type of mayonnaise works best for this recipe?
Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. However, reduced-fat mayonnaise can be used if preferred. It’s advisable to avoid using Miracle Whip, as its sweetness may alter the intended flavor profile.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Keep in mind that thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in an air fryer?
Absolutely. After preparing the chicken as directed, place it in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C) when the chicken is safely cooked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the mayonnaise and cheese layers, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for meal planning.
What sides pair well with Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken?
This dish complements a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
Is it necessary to slice the chicken breasts in half?
Slicing the chicken breasts horizontally creates thinner pieces, which cook more evenly and quickly. If you prefer thicker pieces, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Yes, sprinkling seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese layer before baking can add a delightful crunch to the dish.
How do I prevent the mayonnaise mixture from sliding off the chicken?
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before applying the mayonnaise mixture. This helps the coating adhere better during baking.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken for later use?
Yes, after the chicken has cooled completely, store it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken with its savory, cheesy topping, and feel free to experiment with the suggested variations to make it your own.
Print
Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy, cheesy blend of mayo and parmesan, then baked to golden perfection. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing main course for special occasions.
Ingredients
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (about 1½ lbs)
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Mayonnaise Mixture:
½ cup mayonnaise (room temperature)
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided)
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season chicken on all sides and place in baking dish.
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Mix mayo, ½ cup parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on each chicken breast.
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Sprinkle remaining ½ cup parmesan over the mayo layer.
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Bake 20–22 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use full-fat mayonnaise for best flavor and texture.
For extra crunch, top with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking.
Make it ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking.
Can be air fried at 400°F for about 8 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
