Mayo Parmesan Chicken

When you’re pressed for time but still want a flavorful, comforting meal, Mayo Parmesan Chicken is the perfect solution. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, this creamy, cheesy chicken dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent yet effortless.

What sets this dish apart is the creamy mayo-Parmesan coating, which locks in moisture and delivers a rich, savory crust. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is virtually foolproof. Plus, it offers endless customizations to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

This recipe uses ingredients like mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and boneless, skinless chicken breasts to create a dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. You can also explore the broader culinary context of this dish by learning more about mayonnaise and its role in global cuisine or how chicken as food has become a versatile base for countless recipes. On Pinterest, you’ll find easy chicken dinner ideas that show just how adaptable and beloved this combination is.

💖 Why you’ll love this recipe

There are plenty of reasons why Mayo Parmesan Chicken has become a staple in kitchens across the world:

• Fast and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.

• Minimal ingredients: You probably have everything on hand already.

• Versatile: Works with different proteins, coatings, and seasonings.

• Kid-friendly: Mild flavors and crispy texture win over picky eaters.

• Low-carb option: Skip the breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly dinner.

For those looking for more dinner inspiration, weeknight chicken recipes can be a great way to spice up your weekly meal plan. And for those watching their carbs, this dish fits right in with low carb chicken recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor.

🧂 Ingredient breakdown and substitutions

Understanding your ingredients is key to mastering this dish. Here’s a full list of what you’ll need to make Mayo Parmesan Chicken and how you can adapt the recipe to your taste or dietary preferences.

Main ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh-grated)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional for crunch

• ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or Panko for added crispiness)

Garnish

• Chopped parsley (optional, for color and freshness)

Substitutions and variations

• Mayo substitutes: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a blend of Greek yogurt and olive oil

• Parmesan alternatives: Pecorino Romano or finely shredded mozzarella

• Breadcrumb swaps: Crushed pork rinds (for keto), almond flour, or omit entirely

For more insight into your ingredients, explore Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to understand their flavor profiles and cooking properties.

🍗 Choosing the right chicken breast

Using the correct type and cut of chicken can make or break your dish. Here’s what you need to know:

• Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the leanest, most neutral protein base.

• Pound them to ¾-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and juicy texture.

• Dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.

• Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, fattier alternative.

Uniform thickness is essential to prevent the outside from drying out before the inside cooks through. A quick pounding also tenderizes the meat for an extra juicy bite.

🧀 The secret behind the mayo-Parmesan coating

The star of this dish is the creamy, savory mayo-Parmesan mixture. Here’s why it works:

• Mayonnaise seals in moisture during baking, preventing dry or rubbery chicken.

• Parmesan cheese caramelizes to create a crispy, golden crust.

• Seasonings infuse flavor throughout the chicken without marinating.

This coating transforms ordinary chicken into a rich, decadent meal — without deep frying or lengthy prep.

🍞 Optional crunch factor: to breadcrumb or not?

Adding a layer of breadcrumbs can take this dish to the next level. Here’s how:

• Use ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs for a crisp texture.

• Sprinkle them over the mayo-Parmesan layer and gently press to adhere.

• Panko breadcrumbs offer extra crunch and lighter texture.

• For low-carb: Skip entirely or use crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

If you’re curious about how breadcrumbs enhance texture, check out their history and culinary uses on Wikipedia’s breadcrumb page.

🔪 Step-by-step instructions with expert tips

Let’s walk through the process of making Mayo Parmesan Chicken from start to finish.

Step 1: Preheat your oven

• Set oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

• If thick, pound to ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 3: Make the mayo-Parmesan mixture

In a medium bowl, combine:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper
  Mix thoroughly until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the chicken

• Place chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.

• Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each breast.

Step 5: Add optional crunch

• Sprinkle ½ cup breadcrumbs evenly over each piece.

• Press lightly to help them stick.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Use a food thermometer for accuracy.

Step 7: Rest and serve

• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

• Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

✅ Review: This section uses primary and LSI keywords, step-by-step structure, proper formatting, and includes a relevant internal link. It enhances readability with bullets and ensures SEO optimization.

🍽️ Serving suggestions

Wondering what to serve with Mayo Parmesan Chicken? Here are some delicious side dishes that complement the creamy, savory flavor profile:

Best traditional pairings:

• Mashed potatoes with garlic and butter

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, green beans, carrots)

• Buttered egg noodles or herbed rice

Low-carb options:

• Cauliflower rice

• Zucchini noodles

• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette

Serve the chicken sliced on top of a bed of veggies or next to your favorite carb. Either way, it’s a complete meal that satisfies every time.

🔄 Recipe variations & customizations

Customize your Mayo Parmesan Chicken based on what you have in the fridge or your dietary needs.

Spice it up

• Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the mayo mix.

• Drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Herb-forward version

• Add 1 tbsp of chopped fresh basil, oregano, or thyme.

Dairy-free version

• Use dairy-free mayo and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Mayo-free option

• Replace mayo with full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream.

These swaps don’t just change the flavor—they allow you to make the dish healthier, spicier, or more allergy-friendly.

🧊 How to store and reheat leftovers

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats.

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Keep the topping side up to preserve texture.

Freezing

• Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Oven method: 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

• Microwave: Use 50% power for 2 minutes to prevent drying out.

Avoid reheating at high temperatures to preserve moisture and texture.

📊 Nutritional information (per serving)

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for one serving (without breadcrumbs):

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 26g

• Carbs: 3g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 1g

This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets.

⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid

To get the best results, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the pounding step: Uneven cooking results in dry or raw spots.

• Using too much mayo or cheese: Overflows and burns in the oven.

• Skipping the meat thermometer: Leads to over- or undercooked chicken.

• Not letting it rest: Juices escape, making the chicken less tender.

Small details make a big difference in the final texture and flavor.

❓ FAQs – Mayo Parmesan Chicken

Can you use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly sweeter and tangier. Mayonnaise is recommended for its creamy texture and neutral flavor.

Is it better to use fresh or canned Parmesan?
Fresh grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor. Canned Parmesan can work in a pinch but may taste saltier.

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 15 minutes, checking doneness with a thermometer.

How do you keep chicken from drying out in the oven?
Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature, and don’t overbake. The mayo layer also helps retain moisture.

Can I make Mayo Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and coat the chicken, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to get a crispy top without broiling?
Add Panko breadcrumbs and use high oven heat (425°F). Broiling is optional but not necessary for crispiness.

🏁 Final thoughts & recipe recap

Mayo Parmesan Chicken is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a weeknight hero. With its crispy top, juicy center, and rich flavors, it checks every box for flavor, ease, and flexibility. You don’t need fancy tools or advanced techniques to get it right—just quality ingredients and a hot oven.

Print