Chicken Breast Recipe
This easy baked Chicken Breast Recipe features tender, juicy chicken topped with a creamy Parmesan coating made from mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, grated Parmesan, and simple seasonings. Baked uncovered at 375°F until lightly golden, it makes a flavorful and convenient dinner for busy evenings.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breasts boneless and skinless; approximate quantity used for the nutrition estimate
Parmesan Topping
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt approximate quantity used for the nutrition estimate; regular mayonnaise was used in the calculation
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated; approximate quantity used for the nutrition estimate
- garlic powder for seasoning the chicken
- onion powder for the Parmesan topping
- 1/2 tsp salt approximate quantity used for the nutrition estimate; season to taste
- black pepper to taste
- paprika for color and warmth
Optional Garnish
- lemon juice optional squeeze for brightness
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow the oven to reach the correct temperature before placing the chicken inside.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Drying the chicken helps the seasoning adhere and prevents excess moisture from thinning the Parmesan topping.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with grated Parmesan cheese, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until evenly mixed and thick enough to spread over the chicken.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, leaving enough space between the pieces for even cooking. Spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, covering the surface to the edges. Leave the underside uncovered.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) until the Parmesan topping is lightly golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Begin checking after approximately 20 minutes. Average chicken breasts generally require 22–28 minutes, while thicker pieces may need longer.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices and keeps the meat tender.
- Serve the chicken warm with the Parmesan coating intact. If desired, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the richness of the topping.
Notes
Ingredient quantities: The original ingredient list does not specify exact measurements. The chicken, mayonnaise, Parmesan, and salt quantities entered above are approximate amounts stated in the recipe's nutrition calculation, not confirmed recipe measurements. Other seasoning quantities remain unspecified.
Cooking time: Thin chicken breasts may cook in approximately 20 minutes, while average pieces generally require 22–28 minutes. Thicker pieces may take longer. Always check that the thickest portion reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For best results: Choose chicken breasts of similar thickness, pat them completely dry, avoid overcrowding the baking dish, and bake uncovered to help the Parmesan topping develop a lightly golden finish.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a slightly tangier topping. An optional squeeze of lemon adds freshness.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover cooked chicken promptly in a covered container. The original recipe does not specify exact storage durations or tested freezing instructions.
Nutrition: Values are estimates per serving, based on regular mayonnaise, 1½ lb chicken breast, ½ cup grated Parmesan, ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ tsp salt, and seasonings, divided into four servings. Using Greek yogurt or different quantities will change the nutritional values.