Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

The Best Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe for Family Dinners

Creamy mayo parmesan chicken promises a delightful culinary adventure that changes ordinary poultry into something extraordinary.

Home cooks adore this simple yet sophisticated dish that elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort.

The magical combination of tangy mayonnaise and nutty parmesan creates a golden, crispy coating that seals in moisture and flavor.

Rich, velvety sauce caresses each tender chicken piece, delivering a mouthwatering experience that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Kitchen magic happens when humble ingredients blend seamlessly, producing a meal that looks impressive yet requires surprisingly little technical skill.

Unexpected depth comes from the unexpected marriage of creamy condiments and sharp cheese, resulting in a crowd-pleasing entree.

Families and friends will eagerly gather around the table, anticipating each savory, crisp-edged bite.

Why Mayo Parmesan Chicken Should Be Your Next Dinner

  • Unlock Speedy Gourmet Cooking: Whip up a restaurant-quality chicken dish in just 30 minutes with minimal ingredients and basic kitchen skills, perfect for busy home cooks craving delicious meals without complicated techniques.
  • Creamy Cheesy Flavor Explosion: The combination of mayonnaise and Parmesan creates a rich, tangy coating that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece, delivering incredible taste with every bite.
  • Nutritionally Smart Comfort Food: Balanced at around 310 calories per serving, this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies hunger without compromising health, making it an ideal option for those watching their nutrition while enjoying a delectable meal.
  • Versatile Weeknight Wonder: Easily adaptable to different side dishes and quick to prepare, this chicken recipe solves the dinner dilemma by providing a crowd-pleasing option that works for family meals, casual gatherings, or quick solo dinners.

Gather Ingredients for Creamy Mayo Parmesan Chicken

Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean protein that serves as the main star of the dish, best when fresh and boneless.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Smoked Paprika, Cracked Pepper, Salt: Spices that add depth, warmth, and essential flavor to the chicken, providing a smoky and well-seasoned profile.
Creamy Coating:
  • Mayonnaise, Parmesan Cheese, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Creamy mixture that creates a rich, tangy, and savory layer with a golden, crispy exterior when baked.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that adds a fresh, herbal touch and visual appeal to the finished dish.

Baking Mayo Parmesan Chicken to Golden Perfection

Step 1: Preheat And Prepare Oven

Heat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season Chicken

Evenly sprinkle chicken breasts with:
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure full coverage and deep flavor.

Step 3: Create Creamy Parmesan Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Half of the Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Stir until ingredients form a smooth, consistent mixture.

Step 4: Coat Chicken

Spread the creamy mixture generously over each chicken breast. Make sure every surface is covered for maximum flavor and moisture.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the coated chicken. This will create a golden, crispy exterior during baking.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Cook for 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The top should be beautifully browned and crispy.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the chicken. This adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with:
  • Steamed green beans
  • Roasted asparagus
  • Light garden salad

Nutritional Insights

Each serving contains approximately 310 calories, offering a balanced and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

Cooking Tips

  • Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juiciness
  • Check internal temperature to ensure proper cooking

Enjoy your delicious and easy Mayo Parmesan Chicken – a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet experience!

Chef Tips for Juicy and Crispy Parmesan Chicken

  • Select Quality Mayonnaise: Choose a full-fat, creamy mayonnaise for the richest, most luxurious coating that helps seal in chicken's moisture and creates a golden, crispy exterior.
  • Evenly Distribute Seasoning: Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure spices adhere perfectly and create a uniform flavor profile across each piece.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches exactly 165 degrees, preventing dryness while ensuring complete food safety.
  • Prevent Cheese Burning: Place chicken on a middle oven rack and watch closely during final 5 minutes of baking to achieve beautiful golden-brown color without scorching.
  • Customize Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheese types like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda, or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for personalized taste dimensions.

How to Store Mayo Parmesan Chicken Without Losing Crispiness

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always use shallow containers to help cool the chicken quickly and evenly.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen Mayo Parmesan Chicken can maintain quality for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
  • Reheat: Warm refrigerated chicken in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent soggy texture and maintain the crispy Parmesan crust. Drizzle a tiny bit of chicken broth before reheating to keep the meat moist and prevent drying out.

Sides That Go with Mayo Parmesan Chicken

  • Complement with Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the creamy richness of the chicken, refreshing your palate between bites.
  • Match with Roasted Vegetable Medley: Create a balanced plate by serving alongside garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots, which add color, nutrition, and complementary caramelized flavors to the cheesy chicken.
  • Serve with Zesty Herb Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, which provides a tangy contrast to the creamy, savory chicken and helps cleanse the palate with its bright, peppery notes.
  • Pair with Herbed Quinoa: Cook quinoa with fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, offering a protein-rich, nutty side that absorbs the chicken's delicious juices while adding nutritional variety to the meal.

Give Your Mayo Parmesan Chicken a Flavor Twist

  • Spicy Kick Chicken: Replace smoked paprika with chili powder and add red pepper flakes for a fiery version that brings heat to the classic recipe.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Swap garlic and onion powder with dried oregano, thyme, and basil, then top with crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
  • Ranch Lovers' Chicken: Substitute mayonnaise with ranch dressing and mix in dried dill for a tangy, herb-packed alternative that ranch enthusiasts will crave.
  • Low-Carb Almond Crust Chicken: Blend crushed almonds with the Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, low-carb topping that adds extra protein and texture to the dish.
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Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe


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4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Mayo Parmesan Chicken offers a golden-crusted delight that elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort. Crispy, cheesy layers meld together, creating a mouthwatering dish you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Creamy and Cheese Ingredients:

  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to a scorching 425 degrees fahrenheit, positioning the rack in the center. Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Carefully pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season generously with smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, massaging the spices into the meat to enhance flavor penetration.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend mayonnaise, half the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well-incorporated. The creamy mixture should have a consistent texture without lumps.
  4. Spread the prepared mayo-cheese mixture evenly across each chicken breast, making sure to cover the entire surface area. Use the back of a spoon to create a thick, uniform layer that will crisp beautifully during baking.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top, creating a golden, crispy coating that will develop a delightful crunch when roasted.
  6. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 22-27 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165 degrees fahrenheit to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and maintain moisture. This crucial resting period ensures a tender, succulent result.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant pop of color and a hint of fresh herbaceous flavor to the rich, creamy dish.
  9. Serve immediately alongside steamed green vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the Parmesan-crusted chicken.

Notes

  • Savor a protein-packed meal that transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy delicacy with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Discover a foolproof recipe where mayonnaise creates an incredible golden, crispy exterior while keeping the chicken incredibly moist and tender.
  • Elevate your dinner routine with this quick, crowd-pleasing dish that requires just six ingredients and delivers maximum flavor in under 30 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 482
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 707 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
Alex Reed

Alex Reed

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Culinary Education​, Food Writing and Blogging​, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Global Cuisine Exploration

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and contemporary cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development. Emphasized hands-on experience in diverse culinary traditions.​

Le Cordon Bleu Paris

  • Program: Diplôme de Cuisine
  • Focus: Advanced instruction in French culinary techniques, including sauce preparation, pâtisserie, and haute cuisine.​

Alex Reed is an inventive chef and food creator with a passion for dishes that balance taste, health, and sustainability. 

Trained at Portland Community College and holding an Advanced Pastry Arts certificate from Oregon Culinary Institute, Alex brings more than 10 years of practical culinary experience to every recipe he develops. 

His background uniquely blends traditional cooking skills with modern, mindful eating principles. As the founder of Beard and Bonnet, Alex creates recipes that encourage readers to cook confidently.

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