Description
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in a creamy Parmesan and herb sauce, baked to perfection with an optional crispy topping. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that makes a perfect weeknight dinner, easily customizable with lighter ingredients or added spices for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping (optional)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Using a spatula, spread the creamy sauce evenly over each chicken breast ensuring full coverage.
- Add topping: If you like a crispy crust, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the coated chicken breasts. For an extra smoky hint, dust the chicken with a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To achieve a golden, crispier top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices for tender, flavorful chicken.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without sacrificing creaminess.
- The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are optional but recommended for a crunchy topping.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Resting the chicken before serving helps keep it juicy and tender.
