Mayo Parmesan Chicken: The Ultimate Creamy, Oven-Baked Chicken Dinner
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Best Side Dishes
- Storage Tips
- Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Craving a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly chicken dinner? This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is your answer! With a crispy golden crust, juicy chicken breasts, and a rich, creamy parmesan-mayo topping, this oven-baked dish is ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or impressing guests, it’s budget-friendly, keto-approved, and loved by even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein & Low-Carb: Ideal for keto or low-carb diets.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like mayonnaise and parmesan.
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep, and the oven does the rest.
- Restaurant-Quality: Crispy on top, juicy inside, with savory parmesan flavor.
- Family-Approved: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs, organic if possible)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended; light mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (avoid pre-shredded for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Optional for Crunch: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good coating.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
- Place the chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Mix until you have a thick, creamy paste. (Optional: Stir in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.)
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Spread the mayo-parmesan mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage to lock in moisture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- For a golden-brown crust, switch to broil mode for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Best Side Dishes
Pair this creamy Mayo Parmesan Chicken with:
- Low-Carb Option: Garlic butter roasted vegetables (zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus)
- Comfort Classic: Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Fresh and Light: Caesar salad or spinach salad with vinaigrette
- Healthy Grains: Rice pilaf or quinoa
- Simple Veggies: Steamed broccoli with lemon butter
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep: Slice leftovers for wraps, sandwiches, or salads.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
Based on 4 servings
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Full-Fat Mayo: It creates the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan for better melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded.
- Add Crunch: Mix in panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the chicken juicy.
- Meal Prep Hack: Slice leftovers for quick wraps, salads, or sandwiches during the week.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the topping.
- Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a layer of mozzarella or cheddar on top before broiling.
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter, tangier version.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well; adjust cooking time to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free mayo and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. - Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-approved, especially without breadcrumbs. - Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, assemble the chicken with the topping and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. - What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Skip it or use regular paprika for a milder flavor. - Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating. - How do I prevent dry chicken?
Don’t overbake, use a meat thermometer, and ensure the mayo topping fully covers the chicken. - Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Yes, mix ½ cup panko or crushed pork rinds into the topping for a crispy texture. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) to maintain the crispy topping, or microwave gently. - Can I use low-fat mayo?
Yes, but full-fat mayo yields a richer, creamier result.
Conclusion
This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is a game-changer for quick, delicious weeknight dinners. With its creamy, cheesy topping and juicy, tender chicken, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or hosting a dinner party, this high-protein, low-carb dish is sure to impress. Try it tonight and make it your new go-to chicken recipe!
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