This recipe for melt-in-your-mouth chicken is incredibly easy to prepare and yields tender, flavorful chicken breasts that are sure to be a hit at any meal. The combination of mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy topping that keeps the chicken moist and adds a delightful, savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
- Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and garlic powder.
- Mix well: Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Arrange the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick baking spray.
- Spread the mixture: Evenly spread the mayonnaise and cheese mixture on top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth chicken warm, perhaps with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add some herbs: For added flavor, consider adding some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Try different cheeses: While Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste.
FAQs:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Is there a lower-fat alternative to mayonnaise?
You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise for a lower-fat option without compromising too much on flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise and cheese mixture and spread it on the chicken breasts