When it comes to versatile, delicious, and surprisingly simple-to-prepare meals, there's nothing quite like a well-executed chicken dish. The combination of mayonnaise and parmesan offers a flavor profile that's not just unique but extraordinarily tempting. If you're looking to elevate your chicken dinner or even planning an easy yet impressive dish for a gathering, this Mayo and Parm Baked Chicken Breast Delight is a recipe you'll want to bookmark.
Why Mayo and Parm?
The use of mayonnaise in baking chicken might surprise some, but here’s why it works:
- Moisture: Mayo acts as a natural binder that keeps the chicken incredibly moist throughout the cooking process.
- Crust: When mayo is combined with parmesan, it creates a crispy, golden crust that’s irresistible.
- Flavor: The subtle tang of mayo pairs excellently with the nuttiness of parmesan, enhancing the chicken's flavor without overpowering it.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best results)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Preparation: Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for an easier cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Mix the Coating: In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Coat Chicken: Spread the mayonnaise mixture over each chicken breast evenly. Ensure a good coating for that crispy crust.
- Into the Oven: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Baking Time: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The top should be golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Pairing Suggestions
This delightful chicken dish pairs wonderfully with:
- A fresh salad to balance out the richness
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots
- Mashed potatoes or a simple risotto for a heartier meal
Tips for the Perfect Bake
💡 Note: Ensuring that the mayonnaise is at room temperature helps it spread more evenly across the chicken.
Here are a few additional tips:
- Use quality mayonnaise. The better the mayo, the richer the taste.
- Don’t skimp on the parmesan. The cheese provides both flavor and a crispy exterior, which is key to the dish.
- Try to get even thickness on the chicken for uniform cooking. You might need to butterfly thicker breasts.
Variations to Consider
Want to customize this recipe? Here are some ideas:
- Add herbs like basil or thyme to the mayo mix for additional layers of flavor.
- Include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- After baking, add a small amount of marinara sauce and a layer of mozzarella to turn this into a chicken parmesan.
In the spirit of creating dishes that not only taste amazing but also provide a balance of nutrients, this Mayo and Parm Baked Chicken Breast is both indulgent and relatively nutritious. Its crispy exterior combined with a juicy interior makes for a memorable dining experience that will delight your palate. This recipe stands out as a straightforward yet sophisticated meal option that’s perfect for family dinners or when you need something to impress.
Can I use homemade mayonnaise for this recipe?
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Yes, homemade mayonnaise works beautifully, and you can control the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
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You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese, but remember that the flavor will change slightly.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
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Yes, once baked, you can freeze individual portions. Simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
