Mayonnaise and Parmesan Chicken Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy
Looking for a fast, no-fuss chicken dinner that’s full of flavor and always comes out tender? This Mayonnaise and Parmesan Chicken recipe is a classic favorite. The creamy mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist, while Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs create a golden, crispy topping.
This simple baked chicken dish comes together in minutes with pantry staples—perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Prep: Only 10 minutes of hands-on time.
Super Juicy: The mayonnaise locks in moisture so the chicken never dries out.
Crowd-Pleasing: A cheesy, crispy coating everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious baked Parmesan chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Tip: For extra crispiness, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Mayonnaise and Parmesan Chicken:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture
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In a small bowl, combine:
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken
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Place the 4 chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
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Pat them dry with paper towels for better adhesion of the topping.
Step 4: Spread the Mayonnaise Mixture
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Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast, coating the tops completely.
Step 5: Add the Breadcrumbs
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Sprinkle 1 cup breadcrumbs over the chicken.
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For extra cheesy flavor, you can also top with a little more Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake
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Place the dish in the preheated oven.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until:
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The chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
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The topping is golden brown and crispy.
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Step 7: Rest and Serve
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Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
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Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this savory chicken with:
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Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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A crisp green salad
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Buttered noodles
Recipe Variations and Tips
Make it spicy: Add 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the mayonnaise mixture.
Use different cheese: Asiago or Romano work beautifully in place of Parmesan.
Go extra crispy: Substitute panko breadcrumbs for more crunch.
Lighten it up: Swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt—still creamy, but lower in fat.
Herb twist: Mix in fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
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Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through, or reheat gently in the microwave.
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Freezing: You can freeze baked chicken portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great—just adjust baking time if needed (they may cook a bit faster).
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
Can I prep this dish ahead?
Absolutely—assemble the chicken in the baking dish up to 12 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Final Thoughts
This Mayonnaise and Parmesan Chicken is a true weeknight hero: simple, juicy, and bursting with savory flavor. With minimal prep and easy clean-up, it’s sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.