Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Crispy, Flavor-Packed Chicken That’s Surprisingly Easy to Make

If you’re on the hunt for a chicken recipe that’s juicy on the inside, crispy and cheesy on the outside, and totally bursting with flavor, this Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken is your new best friend. Imagine biting into tender, succulent chicken coated in a golden crust made from creamy mayo and nutty Parmesan cheese — it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a staple in your dinner rotation!

This one’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here’s why this recipe is an absolute keeper:

Juicy and Tender: The mayo keeps the chicken incredibly moist — no dryness here!

Crunchy, Cheesy Crust: The Parmesan adds a savory, crispy crust that’s downright addictive.

Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples you probably already have, no fancy shopping needed.

Quick to Prepare: Minimal prep and baking time means dinner’s on the table fast.

Kid-Approved: Mild, cheesy, and flavorful — a guaranteed win with the whole family.

Ingredients in Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Let’s talk about the magic behind the flavor:

Mayonnaise

Creates a creamy base that locks in moisture and helps the crust stick.

Parmesan Cheese

Finely grated for a rich, nutty, crispy topping.

Garlic Powder

Adds a subtle savory depth.

Italian Seasoning

A blend of herbs to bring warmth and complexity.

Salt and Pepper

Season to taste and enhance all the other flavors.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

The star of the dish — tender and juicy inside.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to create that golden-crisp perfection? Here’s how:

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for baking.

Mix the Coating

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of each piece.

Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pair this crispy delight with:

Fresh Salads: A bright garden salad or Caesar salad for a fresh contrast.

Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots roasted with olive oil.

Pasta or Rice: Simple buttered noodles or fluffy rice soak up any extra flavor.

Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side to round out the meal.

Sauce Options: A drizzle of marinara or pesto adds a flavor twist.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best texture and flavor.

Don’t Overcoat: A thin layer of mayo-Parmesan mixture is all you need for that perfect crust.

Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Make Ahead: Prep chicken with the coating and refrigerate up to 2 hours before baking.

Customize Seasonings: Add paprika or cayenne for a little extra kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A1: Yes! Adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Just double-check your seasonings and Parmesan for any additives.

Q3: Is this recipe dairy-free?
A3: The Parmesan cheese is dairy, but you can try dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Q4: Can I air fry this chicken?
A4: Yes, cook at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes, checking doneness.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.

Q7: How do I reheat without losing crispiness?
A7: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy crust.

Q8: Can I add lemon zest to the crust?
A8: Yes! It adds a lovely fresh brightness.

Q9: What’s the best way to serve this for meal prep?
A9: Pair with steamed veggies and quinoa or brown rice for balanced meals.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Definitely—just use a larger baking sheet or bake in batches.

Conclusion

Juicy Mayo-Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple, satisfying recipe that delivers crispy, cheesy, and tender chicken every single time. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want a comforting meal with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner!

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