Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best results)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or Italian seasoning)
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper .
- Spread about 1–2 tablespoons of mayonnaise evenly over the top side of each chicken breast (you’ll only coat the tops).
Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture
- In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese , panko breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder , onion powder , parsley , and red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix well.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Press the mayonnaise-coated side of each chicken breast into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even, generous coating. Gently pat the crust onto the chicken to help it adhere.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, crust side up.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
Tips and Variations
- Add Herbs: Stir in dried thyme, oregano, or basil into the crust mixture for extra flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the crust for a smoky kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit them entirely for a Parmesan-only crust.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes , flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crispy.
- Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and Flavorful: The mayonnaise locks in moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
- Crispy Crust: The Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture creates a golden, crunchy topping that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and hands-off baking make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Pair it with almost any side dish for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, crispy coating.
This Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a foolproof way to elevate plain chicken into a restaurant-quality dish. With its irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. 🧀
