This classic baked chicken dish lives up to its name. With a creamy Parmesan topping that bakes into a golden crust, every bite is juicy, flavorful, and tender. Simple to prepare and made with everyday ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for serving guests.
🛒 Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
👩🍳 Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them in a lightly greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece.
In a mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, coating them generously.
Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Serving Tips
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance the richness of the topping. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent accompaniments. For something heartier, serve with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice pilaf.
Variations
For a lighter version, substitute plain Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise.
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to give the dish a gentle kick.
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for extra aroma and flavor.
Try using a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for a cheesier crust.
Make Ahead Option
You can assemble the chicken with the topping earlier in the day and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the dish goes into the oven cold.
This melt in your mouth chicken is comfort food at its finest — tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, yet so easy to make. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.