Get ready to fall in love with Mayo Parmesan Chicken—an irresistibly juicy and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, a luscious layer of creamy mayo, and a crisp, cheesy Parmesan crust. It’s amazing how ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen can transform into something this weeknight-friendly yet totally craveable. The subtle notes of garlic and Italian herbs mingle with the savory richness of Parmesan, making every bite simply unforgettable. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both effortless and impressive, Mayo Parmesan Chicken delivers every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mayo Parmesan Chicken lies not just in how comforting it tastes, but in how approachable and familiar the ingredients are. Each item plays its own special role—either adding flavor, moisture, or that sought-after golden finish.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and the perfect protein base for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Mayonnaise: Not just for sandwiches! It keeps the chicken unbelievably moist while creating a creamy “glue” for the cheese topping.
- Parmesan cheese: Opt for fresh-grated if you can, for maximum nutty, salty flavor and a gorgeous golden top.
- Garlic powder: Delivers a gentle yet unmistakable savory punch that pairs beautifully with the cheese and herbs.
- Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for that signature Mediterranean aroma.
- Salt: Helps to heighten all the flavors and season the chicken perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds a bit of subtle heat to balance the richness of the mayo and cheese.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkle these on for a satisfying crunch—panko or regular both work wonders.
How to Make Mayo Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Getting your oven nice and hot ensures that your Mayo Parmesan Chicken cooks evenly and achieves that golden-brown finish on top. It’s the small details like preheating that help everything come together perfectly!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. This is the star of the show—rich, savory, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Arrange your chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Generously spread that flavorful mayo-Parmesan mixture over each piece, making sure to cover them from edge to edge. This will lock in moisture and guarantee juicy, tender chicken.
Step 4: Add Breadcrumbs for Crunch (Optional)
If you love a bit of texture, now’s the time to sprinkle the tops with breadcrumbs. They’ll form a beautiful, golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layer beneath. Don’t skip this step if you want your Mayo Parmesan Chicken extra crispy on top!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is a gorgeous golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells incredible and the juices run clear.
How to Serve Mayo Parmesan Chicken
Garnishes
Brighten up your Mayo Parmesan Chicken with a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving. A zesty squeeze of lemon juice over each piece also gives it a lovely, tangy lift. These simple garnishes add color and freshness, making your dish look (and taste) restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, some buttery roasted vegetables, or a pile of freshly cooked pasta. The creamy, savory flavors of the chicken find their perfect match in these easy sides, making for a truly satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice the Mayo Parmesan Chicken and lay it over a bed of garlicky pasta or a vibrant mixed greens salad? You could even tuck slices into ciabatta rolls for a seriously good sandwich. Serving it family-style straight from the baking dish also makes for a cozy, shareable presentation at the dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Mayo Parmesan Chicken, simply let it cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for easy lunches or a quick dinner repeat.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze cooked Mayo Parmesan Chicken! Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s a great way to meal prep ahead and have a homemade dinner ready to go—just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil (to retain moisture), and warm at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. If you like the top extra crispy, uncover for the last few minutes. You can also microwave it for convenience, but the oven is best for bringing back that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully for Mayo Parmesan Chicken and will turn out even juicier. You may need to slightly adjust the cooking time, so just keep an eye on doneness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this is an easy dish for those watching their gluten intake.
What’s the best way to get even browning on top?
For an extra golden crust, finish the Mayo Parmesan Chicken under the broiler for 1–2 minutes after baking. Just watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Do I need to marinate the chicken first?
No marinating is necessary since the mayo-Parmesan mixture both seasons and keeps the chicken tender as it bakes. That’s what makes this such a quick and convenient recipe.
Can I prepare Mayo Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble everything a few hours ahead and chill it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop it into the oven—it’s an ideal recipe for busy days or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and fuss-free, this Mayo Parmesan Chicken will quickly become one of your household favorites. Give it a try next time you want a meal that’s equally perfect for a laid-back family dinner or impressing guests. Let’s get cooking—you’re going to love every bite!