parmesan crusted chicken recipe mayonnaise
The Best parmesan crusted chicken recipe mayonnaise
I’ve been making this parmesan crusted chicken with mayonnaise for years, and it’s one of those recipes that just never gets old. It’s simple, quick, and always turns out crispy and flavorful—exactly what I need on busy weeknights when I want something my whole family will actually eat. My kids love it because it’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, and I love it because it’s a protein-packed meal that doesn’t require a ton of effort. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even pasta, and it works for everything from a casual dinner to a slightly fancier meal when you’re hosting.
What I really appreciate about this recipe is how the mayonnaise helps create that perfect golden crust. It might sound a little unusual if you’ve never tried it before, but it keeps the chicken moist while the parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. And because it’s baked instead of fried, it’s a lighter option that still feels indulgent. The best part? It’s made with ingredients I usually have on hand, so I don’t have to make a special trip to the store. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just looking for a reliable go-to meal, this one’s a winner.

Mayonnaise Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This crispy and flavorful chicken dish features a rich parmesan-mayonnaise crust that locks in moisture while delivering a golden, cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Marinara sauce for dipping
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
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2 In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
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3 Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
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4 Spread a thin layer of the mayonnaise-Parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast, pressing gently to adhere.
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5 Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
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6 Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges or marinara sauce if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Shallow dish or plate
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Mayonnaise Parmesan Crusted Chicken Works
This parmesan crusted chicken with mayonnaise is one of those recipes that just works every time. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company, and the crispy, cheesy crust always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a potluck, this dish is a reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mayonnaise Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. Can I use a different type of mayonnaise for the parmesan crust?
Yes, you can use different types of mayonnaise, such as light, olive oil-based, or even vegan mayonnaise. However, full-fat mayonnaise typically provides the best texture and flavor for a crispy, golden crust. If using a lighter version, you may need to adjust the seasoning to compensate for any reduced richness.
2. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use other hard, grated cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a sharp aged cheddar. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative can work, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
3. How do I prevent the parmesan crust from burning?
To avoid burning, bake the chicken at the recommended temperature (usually 375–400°F) and keep an eye on it, especially if your oven runs hot. You can also cover the chicken loosely with foil for the first half of baking to allow the crust to set without over-browning. Using a light-colored baking sheet can also help.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time by coating it in the mayonnaise-Parmesan mixture and refrigerating it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold. To reheat leftovers, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness—microwaving may make the crust soggy.
5. What sides pair well with parmesan crusted chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts), a fresh green salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta. For a lighter option, try quinoa or a simple caprese salad. A creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara, also complements the flavors nicely.
