Name: Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt (Greek yogurt is a lighter option.); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (For topping.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper ensures that clean-up will be a breeze.
Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch—this will help them cook evenly and stay tender.
Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Coat the Chicken: Spread the prepared topping evenly on each chicken breast to maximize flavor and moisture retention.
Arrange and Season: Place the coated chicken breasts in your baking dish and sprinkle them with paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra touch of flavor.
Bake: Cook the chicken uncovered in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp.
Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step is crucial for retaining moisture and flavor before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken can be enjoyed in countless ways! Serve it alongside fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. Roasted vegetables or a simple side salad pair beautifully, balancing the richness of the chicken. For a comforting twist, shred the chicken and toss it in pasta for an upgraded dinner option.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing leftovers is easy! Keep any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container; it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

When reheating, make sure to heat it through to at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Pro Chef Tips

Want to elevate this dish further? Here are a few handy tips:

For maximum tenderness, consider marinating the chicken breasts in buttermilk for a few hours before preparing the dish.
Experiment with different cheese options, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for varied flavors.
Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to the topping for an extra burst of flavor.

Creative Twists

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences! Consider using BBQ sauce instead of mayonnaise for a smoky flavor, or incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a Mediterranean twist. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, serve it over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 35 to 45 minutes. In total, you should expect around 50 to 55 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Plan to transfer them to the refrigerator a day before you prepare the dish, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

What should I do if I have leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheating is simple—just warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Now you’re armed with everything you need to create this Melt-In-Your-Mouth Baked Chicken Breast! Enjoy the countless compliments that are sure to come your way after serving it. Happy cooking!