Melt In Your Mouth Chicken
Tender, juicy chicken baked with a creamy Parmesan topping that truly melts in your mouth!
This classic recipe has been loved for decades — simple, comforting, and full of flavor. The magic lies in the creamy mayo-Parmesan topping, which locks in moisture and creates a golden, savory crust as it bakes. Whether you use mayonnaise for a rich, traditional version or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist, this dish always turns out perfectly moist and flavorful. It’s an easy, no-fuss weeknight dinner that tastes like comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Creamy Topping: In a medium bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture should be thick and spreadable.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the topping adhere better.
- Spread the Mixture: Spoon the creamy Parmesan mixture evenly over each piece of chicken, spreading it across the top so it forms a generous coating. (There’s no need to coat the bottom — the topping locks in all the juices while baking!)
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until:
- The chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- The topping is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp around the edges.
For a deeper golden color, you can broil for 1–2 minutes at the end — just watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- A crisp green salad
- Fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Tips & Variations
- Add crunch: Mix ¼ cup breadcrumbs into the topping for a slightly crispy crust.
- Extra flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Use chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs also work beautifully — just adjust baking time slightly (about 30–35 minutes).
- Make ahead: You can assemble the chicken and topping a few hours in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave in short bursts until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.