Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. This dish has been a go-to in my kitchen for as long as I can remember, and every time I make it, I can’t help but reminisce about family dinners where the aroma of crispy chicken filled the air, bringing everyone to the table.
What I love most about this dish is how simple yet satisfying it is. The lusciousness of mayonnaise keeps the chicken juicy while creating a flavorful crust of Parmesan that’s downright irresistible. It has that perfect combination of creamy and crunchy that makes me want to dance—yes, I might actually do a little jig in the kitchen when I pull this out of the oven!
So, if you’re in the mood for something easy, delicious, and sure to impress, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo!
What’s in Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Mayonnaise: This may sound a bit unconventional, but trust me, it works wonders! The mayo helps the breadcrumbs stick and keeps the chicken moist as it bakes.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shredded, it adds that lovely nutty flavor we all crave. I prefer using freshly grated Parmesan for that extra richness, but pre-packaged works in a pinch too!
Breadcrumbs: You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference. A crunchy panko breadcrumb will give an extra crispy texture that I adore!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the dish and adds a layer of flavor. It’s one of those ‘secret weapons’ in cooking that I always keep on hand!
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings will enhance all the flavors in your dish. Don’t skip this step!
Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect of this dish!
Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat—what’s not to love? They’re a great option for anyone looking to stay healthy and still enjoy a delicious meal.
Mayonnaise: While it does contain fat, if you use a light or avocado mayo, you can cut down on calories while still achieving that creamy texture. Plus, a little mayo never hurt anybody, right?
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese is lower in fat than many others and packed with protein and calcium, making it a healthier cheese choice.
However, it’s worth considering that the combination of mayo and cheese does bump up the calories. Therefore, I’d suggest pairing this dish with a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables to offset the richness. Balance is key!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light or regular)
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 2 people, so feel free to double it for a family feast!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and then spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on each side.
5. Next, sprinkle that garlic mixture over the mayo-covered chicken, saving a little bit for the breading.
6. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese—mix well!
7. Take each mayo-coated chicken breast and generously coat it in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Press it down to ensure the coating sticks!
8. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining breasts.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
10. Let’s not forget to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
11. Serve hot, and enjoy that crispy goodness!
Flavorful Tips & Tricks
– Variation: Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an added fresh flavor.
– Spice it Up: Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a hint of heat!
– Serve with: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted veggies. You can also whip up some creamy mashed potatoes for a comfort food combo that will make your heart sing!
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and coat it in breadcrumbs earlier and stash it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for some tasty goodness!
I can’t wait for you to give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo a try! It’s such a stellar dish for weeknight dinners or impressing your friends at a gathering. No matter the occasion, this chicken will be a hit! And if you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Happy cooking!
