This oven-baked chicken features a rich parmesan and mayonnaise crust that keeps the meat tender and juicy. It is a quick, high-protein dinner option that requires minimal preparation time.
List of ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts – sliced in half horizontally to create 6 pieces (approx. 1.5 lbs).
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – for initial chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for initial chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for initial chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – for initial chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 cup (116 g) mayonnaise – used at room temperature for easier spreading.
- 1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese – shredded and divided for the mixture and topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – for the mayonnaise mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – for the mayonnaise mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for the mayonnaise mixture.
- Fresh parsley – chopped, used for final garnish.
step-by-step instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish or a sheet pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Create the dry rub: In a small mixing bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Season the meat: Apply the spice mixture evenly to all sides of the sliced chicken breasts. Arrange the seasoned chicken in an even layer within the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the topping: In a medium bowl, blend together the room temperature mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of the shredded parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Apply the crust: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast piece. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese over the top of each piece.
- Bake and finish: Bake in the oven for 20-22 minutes. Remove once the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is bubbling and golden. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Cooking Tips
Use Room Temperature Mayonnaise
Using mayonnaise that has reached room temperature ensures a smoother consistency. Cold mayonnaise can be clumpy and difficult to spread evenly across the surface of the chicken. Let the jar sit on the counter for 30 minutes prior to mixing.
Ensure Uniform Chicken Thickness
Slicing the chicken breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets is essential for even cooking. This prevents the edges from drying out while the center cooks through. If the breasts are uneven, you can lightly pound them to a consistent thickness.
Verify Internal Temperature
Use a digital meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. Pulling the chicken out exactly at 165°F prevents the meat from becoming tough or dry. Overcooking by even a few minutes can significantly impact the texture.
Use Freshly Shredded Parmesan
Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain cornstarch or cellulose to prevent clumping, which can affect the crust’s texture. Grating your own cheese results in a better bubble and brown.
Ingredient Substitutions
Switch to Boneless Skinless Thighs
Chicken thighs are a great alternative for those who prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat. Thighs are less prone to drying out than breasts. Be aware that baking times may increase slightly depending on the thickness of the thighs.
Try Alternative Hard Cheeses
While parmesan is standard, Pecorino Romano offers a saltier, sharper taste. Asiago or Grana Padano are also excellent substitutes that provide a similar melting point. If using a saltier cheese, reduce the added salt in the mayonnaise mixture.
Low-Fat Mayonnaise Options
You can use reduced-fat mayonnaise if you prefer a lower calorie count. The texture will remain similar, though the flavor may be slightly less rich. Avoid using Miracle Whip, as the added sugar and vinegar can alter the savory profile of the dish.
Customizing the Spice Blend
For a smokier flavor, replace the onion powder with a small amount of smoked paprika. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry rub if you prefer a spicy kick. Ensure the seasonings remain balanced to complement the creamy topping.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Using an Air Fryer
Prepare the chicken and topping exactly as described in the oven method. Place the pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook at 400°F for approximately 8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Broiling for a Golden Crust
If the chicken is cooked through but the cheese hasn’t browned sufficiently, turn on the broiler. Place the oven rack in the top position and broil for 1-2 minutes. Watch the chicken closely to prevent the mayonnaise and cheese from burning.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Steamed Vegetables
Serve this chicken alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal. The brightness of green vegetables cuts through the richness of the parmesan crust. Lemon-steamed asparagus is another excellent pairing.
Grain-Based Side Dishes
Quinoa, brown rice, or wild rice pilaf provide a hearty base for the chicken. The grains can soak up any juices released during the baking process. For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice.
Using as a Salad Topping
Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and place them over a bed of mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light balsamic vinaigrette. The warm, cheesy chicken acts as a satisfying protein for a dinner salad.
Sandwich and Wrap Ideas
Place a piece of the parmesan chicken on a toasted ciabatta roll with arugula and pesto. Alternatively, wrap the chicken in a large flour tortilla with sliced avocado and shredded lettuce for a portable lunch option.
Storage and Preservation
Refrigeration Guidelines
Allow the chicken to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Place the pieces in an airtight glass or plastic container to maintain moisture. The chicken will remain fresh and safe to eat for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing for Long Term
Store the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or vacuum-seal bags. Ensure there is minimal air in the packaging to prevent freezer burn. The chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Proper Thawing Process
Thaw frozen chicken slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth. Once fully thawed, the chicken can be reheated using the oven or air fryer.
Reheating Guidelines
Oven Reheating Method
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through without overcooking the meat.
Air Fryer Reheating
Place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. This method is superior for restoring the crispness of the cheese crust. Be careful not to overheat, as the mayonnaise can separate.
Microwave Precautions
If using a microwave, use a medium power setting and heat in 30-second intervals. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the chicken from drying out. Note that the cheese crust will lose its crispness when microwaved.
Common Troubleshooting
Preventing Dry Meat
The most common cause of dry chicken is overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer rather than relying on time alone. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Managing Excess Moisture
If the chicken releases too much liquid in the pan, you can drain it halfway through the cooking process. Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before applying the dry rub also helps the crust adhere better.
Fixing a Pale Crust
If the topping remains white after the designated cooking time, check your oven temperature. A failing heating element or an oven that hasn’t preheated fully can cause this. Use the broiler for a quick fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded parmesan, but the melt will be less creamy due to the anti-caking agents. For the best results, grate the cheese yourself from a block.
Which type of mayonnaise works best?
Full-fat mayonnaise provides the best flavor and stability for the crust. While light mayonnaise works, it may not brown as evenly or taste as rich.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe is naturally low-carb and fits well into a ketogenic diet. Ensure your mayonnaise brand does not contain added sugars to keep it strictly keto.
How do I store this without a container?
If you do not have an airtight container, wrap the cooled chicken tightly in aluminum foil and then place it in a zip-top plastic bag. This prevents the chicken from absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Print
Creamy Parmesan Baked Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
Mayonnaise Parmesan Chicken is seasoned chicken breasts topped with a parmesan mayonnaise mixture plus more parmesan, baked in the oven.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally (about 1 ½ pounds)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise, room temperature
- 1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, shredded, divided
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with cooking spray.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder, then season the chicken breasts evenly on all sides.
- Arrange: Place the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
- Mix Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ½ cup of parmesan, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Apply Topping: Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over each.
- Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is hot and bubbling.
Notes
This recipe can also be made in an air fryer at 400°F for 8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Freshly grated parmesan works best.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 385 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg