Savory Mayo Parmesan Chicken Recipe for Family Dinners
Sizzling and golden, this irresistible mayo parmesan chicken recipe delivers a crispy dinner that’ll make everyone at the table cheer.
Tender chicken breasts get coated in a creamy, tangy mixture that locks in moisture and flavor.
The simple ingredients come together with surprising ease, creating a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty crunch that turns an ordinary chicken dish into something spectacular.
Each bite promises a perfect balance of crisp exterior and juicy meat that’ll have you reaching for seconds.
The magic happens with just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time.
Serve this crowd-pleasing chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 468 kcal
Servings: 5
What Goes in Mayo Parmesan Chicken
For Main Protein:
Chicken Breasts: Premium cut that provides a lean, tender base for our flavorful dish, selecting fresh, plump breasts ensures juicy results.
For Seasoning Blend:
Smoked Paprika, Cracked Pepper, Salt: Powerful spice trio that delivers smoky depth, robust heat, and balanced saltiness, enhancing the chicken's natural flavors.
For Creamy Coating:
Mayonnaise, Parmesan Cheese, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Luxurious mixture creating a golden, crispy exterior with tangy, umami-rich notes; choose aged Parmesan for more intense flavor and always use fresh garlic powder for maximum aromatic punch.
For Fresh Finish:
Parsley: Bright green herb that adds vibrant color, fresh herbal notes, and a clean, peppery undertone to elevate the dish's visual and flavor profile.
Kitchen Essentials for Parmesan Chicken Bake
Baking Dish (9×13): Essential for cooking and serving the chicken evenly.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining mayonnaise and cheese mixture.
Measuring Spoons: Crucial for accurately portioning seasonings and spices.
Whisk or Spoon: Great for mixing the Parmesan and mayo blend smoothly.
Cooking Spray: Keeps chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Sharp Knife: Helpful for garnishing with fresh parsley.
Cooking Instructions for Creamy Mayo Chicken
Oven Warmth
Preheating Preparation Cozy oven environment starts at 425 degrees. Grab a baking dish and give it a quick nonstick spray to prevent any sticky situations.
Chicken Seasoning Massage your chicken pieces with smoky spices. Salt and pepper will dance across the surface, creating a flavor foundation that makes taste buds sing.
Creamy Coating Magic Transform mayonnaise into a luscious blanket by mixing with Parmesan and secret flavor boosters like garlic and onion powder. Spread this dreamy mixture generously, covering every chicken curve.
Cheese Crown Shower the chicken with remaining Parmesan, creating a golden crispy layer that will transform into a crunchy, irresistible topping.
Baking Journey Slide the dish into the hot oven. After 25 minutes, you'll have perfectly cooked chicken with a gorgeous golden surface. Check internal temperature reaches 165 degrees for safety.
Final Flourish Sprinkle fresh herbs for a pop of color and brightness that elevates the entire dish from delicious to restaurant-worthy.
Tips for Juicy Chicken with Crispy Topping
Cooking Tips & Variations
Moisture Magic: Swap regular mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories while keeping the chicken incredibly juicy and tender. This swap adds a tangy twist without compromising the creamy texture.
Spice Adventure: Transform the flavor profile by experimenting with different herb and spice blends like Italian seasoning, Cajun mix, or za'atar for a global culinary journey right from your kitchen.
Crunch Factor: Create an extra crispy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese before sprinkling over the mayo layer. Panko breadcrumbs work wonderfully for added texture and golden-brown crispiness.
Protein Swap: This versatile recipe isn't just for chicken breasts. Try it with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor or swap in turkey breasts for a lean protein alternative that's equally delicious.
Make-Ahead Brilliance: Prepare the seasoned chicken with mayo mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. This meal prep trick saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully before baking.
Serving Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Style
Garden Fresh Companions: Complement the chicken with a vibrant mixed green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette for a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Carb Comfort Pairing: Serve alongside garlic roasted potatoes or creamy mashed cauliflower to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce and create a satisfying complete meal.
Veggie Delight Plate: Roast seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and brussels sprouts with a touch of olive oil and herbs to add color, nutrition, and wonderful texture to your chicken dish.
Wine Weekend Upgrade: For an elevated dining experience, pair this creamy chicken with a chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay that will beautifully complement the rich Parmesan flavors.
How to Store Leftovers of This Chicken Dish
Refrigeration Rhythms: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining its delightful flavor and texture.
Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve moisture and taste.
Reheat with Finesse: Warm in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165 degrees for food safety. A splash of chicken broth can help maintain juiciness during reheating.
Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken breasts in advance and store in portion-sized containers. Perfect for quick lunches or dinner shortcuts during busy weekdays. Pair with pre-chopped vegetables or instant grains for effortless meal assembly.
Succulent chicken breasts coated in a creamy mayo parmesan chicken recipe become a family-favorite dinner classic. Rich parmesan and tangy mayo create a golden, crispy exterior you’ll crave for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, about 1.5 lbs or 680 g)
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
0.5 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cracked pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp salt
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Oven Preparation: Crank up the oven to a blazing 425°F, positioning the rack centrally and misting a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray for effortless release.
Chicken Seasoning: Thoroughly pat chicken breasts dry, then lavishly coat with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, massaging the spices deeply into the meat to amplify flavor profiles.
Creamy Cheese Coating: Whisk mayonnaise, half the Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder into a silky, uniform mixture, ensuring no stubborn lumps remain.
Layering and Topping: Meticulously spread the mayo-cheese blend across each chicken breast, creating an even, luxurious layer. Crown with remaining Parmesan, promising a golden, crispy exterior.
Roasting Process: Slide the dish into the preheated oven, roasting for 22-27 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F. A meat thermometer is your precision tool for perfectly cooked poultry.
Resting and Finishing: Extract from the oven and allow a 3-5 minute rest, letting juices redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness. Sprinkle with vibrant chopped parsley for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestion: Plate immediately alongside verdant steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to complement the rich, cheesy chicken masterpiece.
Notes
Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for spices and mayo-cheese mixture to guarantee consistent flavor and coating thickness.
Temperature Control: Monitor oven temperature closely; 425°F creates perfect golden-brown crust without drying chicken.
Moisture Management: Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to help spices adhere and prevent soggy texture.
Resting Rule: Always let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices and ensure tender, succulent meat.
Dietary Planning, Public Health Nutrition, Nutritional Education, Content Development
Education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree: Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Focus: Research on dietary patterns and their impact on chronic diseases.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Credential: Expertise in translating nutrition science into practical advice.
Emily Roberts is our content specialist and registered dietitian at HealthyChoices.org. With her Master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Illinois and her Registered Dietitian Nutritionist certification, Emily uses her deep nutrition knowledge to write helpful, easy-to-understand guides about healthy eating.
Her warm, practical advice empowers readers to confidently make healthier choices, turning everyday meals into simple moments of wellness and joy.
Emily Roberts
Content Creator & Kitchen Tips Specialist
Expertise
Dietary Planning, Public Health Nutrition, Nutritional Education, Content Development
Education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Emily Roberts is our content specialist and registered dietitian at HealthyChoices.org. With her Master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Illinois and her Registered Dietitian Nutritionist certification, Emily uses her deep nutrition knowledge to write helpful, easy-to-understand guides about healthy eating.
Her warm, practical advice empowers readers to confidently make healthier choices, turning everyday meals into simple moments of wellness and joy.