This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is one of those recipes that’s so simple yet so satisfying, it quickly becomes a household favorite. The creamy mayo and Parmesan coating locks in the chicken’s moisture while creating a golden, flavorful crust as it bakes. The result is perfectly tender chicken with a crispy, cheesy top—no breading or frying required. I tried this once with a dash of garlic powder and a sprinkle of paprika, and it added the perfect touch of warmth and color. Whether served with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish makes a comforting and effortless weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, affordable, and practically foolproof. It uses everyday ingredients and requires minimal prep—just mix, spread, and bake. The mayo keeps the chicken moist, while the Parmesan and seasonings form a savory crust that’s both crispy and creamy. Best of all, it’s versatile—you can make it with chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Mayo Parmesan Chicken – Tender, Juicy, and Deliciously Crispy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a quick and flavorful baked chicken dish featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a creamy, cheesy mayo-Parmesan topping that bakes into a golden, savory crust. It’s simple to prepare and bursting with rich flavor — perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and arrange them in the prepared dish.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and topping is golden and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for a crispier crust.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangier, lower-fat option.
- Try adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
- This recipe works great with chicken thighs as well.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Mayonnaise
The secret ingredient that keeps the chicken juicy and helps the Parmesan adhere. Full-fat mayo delivers the richest flavor, but light mayo also works well.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps form a golden, cheesy crust. Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best results.
Garlic Powder
Enhances the flavor of the mayo mixture with a subtle garlicky kick.
Paprika
Adds a hint of smokiness and beautiful color to the finished dish.
Salt and Black Pepper
Balances the creamy richness and brings out the natural flavor of the chicken.
Optional: Dried Italian Herbs or Parsley
Sprinkle over the top for a touch of freshness and color.
Directions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with oil or nonstick spray.
- Prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Make the topping. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Coat the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the top of each piece, covering them completely.
- Bake. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown.
- Broil for extra color (optional). For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan before serving. Pair with rice, pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with eas
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to crisp the topping. Avoid microwaving for too long—it can make the coating soggy. You can also freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as needed.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Herb Version: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried basil to the mayo mix for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Cheddar Blend: Mix Parmesan with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a richer, gooier topping.
Lemon Pepper Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavor and balance the richness.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens for a keto-friendly meal.
Crispy Crumb Topping: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the mayo mixture before baking for added crunch.
Ranch-Style Chicken: Replace half the mayo with ranch dressing for a tangy twist.
Garlic Butter Upgrade: Mix a tablespoon of melted butter into the mayo topping for extra richness.
Herb-Crusted Version: Add finely chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the mixture for a fresh herbal note.
BBQ Blend: Mix a spoonful of BBQ sauce into the mayo for a smoky, tangy variation.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work perfectly and stay extra juicy—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayo?
It’s possible, but the flavor will be tangier and slightly sweeter than traditional mayo.
Should I cover the chicken while baking?
No, bake uncovered to let the topping brown and become slightly crispy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken up to 8 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) at the thickest part means it’s done.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, but freshly grated melts more evenly and tastes better.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low-carb and fits perfectly into a keto diet.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, garlic green beans, or a simple Caesar salad complement it beautifully.
Can I air fry this recipe?
Yes—cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
Absolutely, for a lighter option—just note the flavor will be slightly tangier.
Conclusion
This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a weeknight miracle—easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and wonderfully comforting. The creamy, cheesy topping keeps the chicken tender inside while forming a crisp, savory crust outside. With minimal prep and maximum reward, it’s a recipe that proves delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll keep coming back to this foolproof favorite for busy days and cozy dinners alike.
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