Introduction

This creamy Parmesan chicken breast recipe is a quick and delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, it creates a flavorful, tender dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

The image shows three pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken breast with a crispy, slightly charred crust. The chicken is seasoned with small green herbs and spices visible on the surface. The texture looks juicy and tender inside with a rough, crunchy outside layer. The pieces are placed close together, with the front piece in sharp focus and the others slightly blurred. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Step 4: If using, sprinkle paprika or Italian seasoning on top for added flavor and color.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juiciness.

Tips & Variations

Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce that still keeps the chicken moist.
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the topping for a hint of heat.
Try mixing fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the mayonnaise mixture for added freshness.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the topping from drying out. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the mayonnaise mixture may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

The image shows three pieces of cooked chicken breast with a golden-brown crust on top. The chicken is slightly textured with small crunchy bits and sprinkled with fine green herbs, giving a fresh look. The pieces are placed close together on a white plate, with the surface beneath the plate being a white marbled texture. The chicken looks juicy and well-cooked, with the browned top layer showing a mix of light yellow and brown shades. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

Is it necessary to use mayonnaise?

Mayonnaise helps keep the chicken moist and creates a creamy topping, but plain Greek yogurt is a great lighter substitute that works just as well.

Creamy Parmesan Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 138 reviews

A creamy, flavorful baked chicken breast recipe featuring a Parmesan and garlic-spiced mayonnaise topping that creates a golden, crispy crust while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. A simple, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Topping

1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
Prepare the topping: In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This creamy mixture will coat the chicken to create a flavorful crust.
Coat the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Spread the prepared topping evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage. If desired, sprinkle paprika or Italian seasoning on top for an added flavor and color boost.
Bake the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and bubbling.
Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to seal in the juices and enhance the tenderness. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Notes

Using plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces calories and adds a slight tang while keeping the chicken moist.
You can customize the seasoning in the topping with herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for variation.
Make sure not to overbake to keep the chicken juicy; use a meat thermometer for best results.
This recipe works well for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: baked chicken breast, creamy chicken, Parmesan chicken, garlic chicken breast, easy dinner, healthy chicken recipe