Chicken breast is a versatile and lean protein that works well in many dishes. In this recipe, we combine creamy mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices to create a flavorful coating for the chicken. This simple method results in juicy, tender chicken breasts with a crispy, golden exterior. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be served alongside vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing dinner for the whole family, this Chicken Breast Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

2. Creamy and Crispy

The combination of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy coating that crisps up beautifully in the oven, adding great texture to the chicken.

3. Full of Flavor

The garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika bring just the right amount of seasoning to the chicken, while the Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor.

4. Healthy Option

By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, you can easily lighten up the recipe without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great option for a healthy, satisfying meal.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add extra seasonings like Italian herbs, lemon zest, or chili flakes to adjust the flavor to your liking.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

Greek Yogurt Substitute: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It will still provide creaminess while cutting down on calories.
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Herb Infused: Mix in some dried Italian herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Cheese Options: If you don’t have Parmesan, try substituting with mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist.
Add Lemon: For a fresh citrus note, squeeze some lemon juice on top of the chicken before serving or add lemon zest to the mayonnaise mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help the coating stick better. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Coating

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Be sure to coat them generously, covering the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure the chicken stays juicy, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can make the chicken dry.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain its juices and keep it tender.
Use Room Temperature Chicken: If possible, allow the chicken breasts to come to room temperature before cooking for more even cooking.
For Extra Crispiness: If you want the coating to be extra crispy, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

How to Serve

This flavorful chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also slice it up and serve it on top of a bed of greens for a light and healthy salad or use it in wraps and sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Reheating

To reheat leftover chicken, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until heated through and the coating stays crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

While this recipe is designed for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as skin-on chicken takes a bit longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, cheddar, or even a mix of different cheeses. Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor, but other cheeses will work too.

3. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes! You can grill the coated chicken breasts over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe as they tend to stay moist and tender. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than chicken breasts.

5. How can I make the chicken spicier?

To make the chicken spicier, you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating mixture. Alternatively, you can serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

6. Can I make the coating ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just coat the chicken when ready to bake.

7. Can I use this recipe for chicken tenders?

Yes! You can use the same coating for chicken tenders. Just adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the tenders.

8. Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or green beans to the baking sheet and bake them alongside the chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the vegetables.

9. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can coat the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

10. What can I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even over rice or pasta.

Conclusion

This Chicken Breast Recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of creamy mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, golden crust while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!