Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken -

Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a family gathering. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy mayo-Parmesan topping, creating a flavor explosion that everyone will love. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken recipe is more than just an easy dinner idea; it’s designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that you can serve with pasta, rice, or a side of vegetables. Here are a few reasons you’ll love it:

Quick Preparation: It takes just 5 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful and Juicy: The mayonnaise helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken every time.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy topping is a hit with children, making dinnertime easier.
Minimal Cleanup: One baking dish means less time washing up!

Ingredients

This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a baking dish. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, locking in juices and flavor from the very beginning.

Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and cracked black pepper. Make sure to coat each piece evenly for maximum flavor. Place the seasoned chicken in the greased baking dish.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ¾ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix the ingredients well until they are smooth and evenly blended. This creamy topping will add a rich flavor to the chicken.

Step 4: Spread the mayonnaise mixture generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring that they are completely covered. Then sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a delightful golden crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your chicken is cooked through and juicy.

Step 6: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken

To enhance your cooking experience and the final dish, consider these pro tips:

Marinate the Chicken: For an even greater depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning blend for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Use Fresh Parmesan: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, using freshly grated Parmesan will give you better flavor and texture.
Monitor the Cooking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Make It a Meal: Pair this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Customize It: Don’t hesitate to add other spices or herbs to the mayonnaise topping, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe! They may take a few additional minutes to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken before baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I serve with mayo Parmesan chicken?

This dish pairs well with various sides, including rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free mayonnaise and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative to create a dairy-free version of this dish.

Conclusion

Juicy Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that will become a staple in your dinner rotation. With minimal preparation and the use of everyday ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that both kids and adults will enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and experience the deliciousness for yourself!