This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken is a family favorite for good reason—it’s incredibly tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The chicken breasts are coated in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, which creates a crispy, flavorful crust as it bakes. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Chicken breasts provide a lean, tender base for the dish. You can also substitute chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. - 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps create the crispy, cheesy crust. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking to cut back on calories. - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Parmesan cheese gives the chicken a rich, nutty flavor and a perfect crispy texture as it bakes. - 1 tsp seasoning salt
Seasoning salt adds a flavorful punch without the need for multiple spices. Adjust the amount depending on your taste. - 1/2 tsp black pepper
Black pepper adds a mild kick that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and cheese. - 1 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder provides a savory, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and, if they are thick, pound them lightly with a meat mallet to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and ensures tenderness.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until fully combined into a creamy, cheesy mixture.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated with the creamy topping. This will form a golden, flavorful crust as the chicken bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
If you’d like a crispier top, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Serve this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with rice or pasta.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
Helpful Notes:
Greek Yogurt Option: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise gives a lighter, tangy flavor while keeping the same creamy texture. Both options work well, so it’s up to your preference.
Add Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the mayo mixture before coating the chicken.
Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly and prevents some parts from drying out while others are still undercooked.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
Chef Bobby Flay: “Season each layer as you go. Even a simple dish like this shines when every component is well-seasoned.”
Chef Ina Garten: “Letting the chicken rest after baking ensures it stays juicy. Cutting into it too soon can cause the juices to run out, leaving it dry.”
