Incredibly tender, juicy chicken baked under a rich, creamy Parmesan topping that turns golden and slightly crisp. This foolproof recipe locks in moisture and delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
📝 Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (even thickness preferred)
1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional additions:
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for deeper flavor)
2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesy top)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment.
If chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness (about 2–3 cm) for even cooking.
2️⃣ Season the Chicken
Place chicken in the dish in a single layer.
Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Coating
In a bowl, combine:
mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika
Mix until smooth and creamy.
This mixture acts as both a marinade and a moisture seal, keeping the chicken extremely juicy.
4️⃣ Coat the Chicken
Spread the mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast.
Make sure each piece is fully covered—this helps form a flavorful crust.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35–40 minutes, depending on thickness.
The chicken is done when:
- Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Juices run clear
- Top is lightly golden
6️⃣ Optional Broil Finish
For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Watch closely to prevent burning.
7️⃣ Rest Before Serving
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking.
This helps retain juices and improves texture.
8️⃣ Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
🍽 Serving Ideas
Serve with mashed potatoes or rice
Pair with roasted vegetables or salad
Add pasta or garlic bread for a complete meal
📊 Recipe Info
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~420 per serving