This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a creamy, flavorful mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Baked to perfection, this quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place them in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
Make the Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix until smooth.
Coat the Chicken: Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Optional Broil: For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot with your chosen sides.
Lighter Option: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier version without sacrificing creaminess.
Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or Asiago cheese to change the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture for extra heat.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can be added for more flavor.