Description
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breasts recipe is the perfect go-to for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner. With just a few simple ingredients—most of which are likely already in your pantry—you can create a juicy, tender, and creamy chicken dish that lives up to its name. The combination of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic forms a rich coating that keeps the chicken moist while baking, resulting in a golden, slightly crispy exterior with an incredibly tender inside. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep, this recipe is easy enough for beginner cooks while still being deliciously satisfying for experienced chefs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. - Prepare the Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Mix well until smooth and creamy. - Prepare the Chicken:
Arrange the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, you may want to pound them lightly to ensure they cook evenly. - Coat the Chicken:
Evenly spread the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure each one is fully coated. - Bake:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a golden, crisp top, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes. - Serve:
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Serve with your choice of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Customizations:
You can customize the flavors by adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the mayo mixture, or by adding a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for some heat. - Make-Ahead Tip:
You can prep the chicken and mixture ahead of time. Store them in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking for a quick meal. - Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture. - Dairy-Free Alternative:
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise substitutes, such as cashew-based Parmesan or plant-based mayo.