Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 150 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a rich and creamy Parmesan and mayonnaise mixture, baked to golden perfection. The coating infuses every bite with savory garlic and onion undertones, while optional paprika or Italian seasoning adds a flavorful finish. Perfect for a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner, this dish promises an irresistibly moist texture and a delightful crisp top.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Topping Mixture

  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (for topping)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch to ensure uniform cooking and a tender texture.
  3. Mix the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Spread the prepared topping evenly on the surface of each chicken breast, ensuring the entire top is covered for maximum flavor and moisture.
  5. Add Optional Seasoning: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the baking dish and sprinkle with paprika or Italian seasoning if desired for added color and flavor complexity.
  6. Bake: Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp.
  7. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven to retain juices, enhancing tenderness and flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Pounding the chicken is essential for even cooking and a tender texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the chicken.
  • For a crispy crust, broil the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
  • Substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise creates a tangy, lighter version that cuts down on fat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with topping
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg