If you love a dish that is incredibly flavorful, wonderfully crispy on the outside, and absolutely juicy on the inside, then you’re in for a treat with this Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. It combines the creamy tang of mayonnaise with the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a golden crust that locks in moisture and packs every bite with deliciousness. This recipe is straightforward, impressive, and perfect for any night you want a comforting yet elegant meal on the table fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients, each chosen to create a perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. These essentials work harmoniously to give the dish its signature crust and juicy interior.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that stays tender and juicy when baked with the right coating.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the chicken doesn’t dry out and creating a smooth base for the crust.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a crispy, savory crust with a wonderful nutty flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note and beautiful color to the crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key for achieving that crispy, golden crust without drying out the chicken. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease so the crust doesn’t stick later on.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Coating
In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the secret weapon—it acts like glue for the crust and infuses every bite with bold flavor.
Step 3: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any surface moisture. This step ensures the mayo-Parmesan coating adheres perfectly and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Spread the creamy mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly on top of each chicken breast. Be generous here—the coating is what transforms the chicken into a crusted masterpiece.
Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken breasts on your prepared pan, making sure they have enough space to bake evenly and crisp up without steaming.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Juicy
Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s cooked through and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to guarantee perfectly juicy chicken every time.
Step 7: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you want a crust that really sings, pop the chicken under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Watch it like a hawk so it crisps up without burning—and that’s the kind of crisp we’re after!
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for an inviting touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice here, adding a lovely herbaceous note and bright contrast to the golden crust. For extra flair, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a vibrant twist that elevates the whole plate.
Side Dishes
This Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes to balance the richness. For something lighter, steamed green beans or a simple quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette make for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the chicken and serving it over a bed of garlic butter pasta or nestled in a warm pita with crunchy greens and a drizzle of honey mustard. You could also dice leftovers into a fresh Caesar salad for a quick, protein-packed lunch the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This chicken can be frozen, but keep in mind the crust may lose a bit of its crispness upon thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat and revive the crust’s crispiness, bake the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave to prevent soggy textures—oven reheating brings back that golden, crunchy crust and juicy interior perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
For the best results, it’s recommended to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because the creamy topping sticks better without the skin. Skin-on breasts may prevent the crust from adhering evenly.
Is mayonnaise really necessary in this crust?
Yes! Mayonnaise adds fat and moisture that keeps the chicken juicy while also acting as a binder for the Parmesan and spices, creating the perfect crust texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, just make sure your mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese do not contain any hidden gluten additives.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
You could try substituting with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano, but Parmesan’s nutty flavor is what really makes this crust special, so it’s worth having on hand if possible.
How can I tell when the chicken is done baking?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—165°F in the thickest part means perfectly cooked chicken. The crust should be golden, and the chicken should feel firm but still juicy when you press it gently.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals without fuss. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet simple, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite!
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Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender, boneless chicken breasts coated with a flavorful mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both creamy and crispy.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Crust Mixture
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined to form a creamy coating.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry using paper towels to ensure the crust adheres well.
- Coat the Chicken: Evenly spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture over the top side of each chicken breast, creating a flavorful crust.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly for optimal cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the crust turns a golden brown color.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked internally.
- For a lower fat option, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, but the crust may be less rich.
- Broiling at the end is optional but enhances texture with a crispier crust.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
