Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

This easy Chicken Breast Recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The combination of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version) and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, savory coating that locks in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken breasts. With the added punch of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, this recipe is bursting with delicious, well-balanced flavors. It’s an ideal dish for a busy weeknight, as it requires minimal preparation and can be on the table in no time. Whether you’re serving it with a side of vegetables, over a salad, or alongside your favorite starch, this chicken breast recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. The simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that feels indulgent yet is light enough for a healthy meal. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and a fantastic way to elevate plain chicken breasts into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Creamy and Flavorful: The mayonnaise or Greek yogurt creates a creamy base that keeps the chicken moist, while the Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding extra herbs or spices to suit your taste.
4. Healthy Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
5. Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is simple to make and won’t require a trip to the store for any specialty items.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

• Herbed Chicken: Add a teaspoon of dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the mayonnaise mixture for an herby flavor boost.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly version, substitute the mayonnaise with full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt and use almond flour in place of any breadcrumbs.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and ensures even cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, covering the surface completely. You can use a spoon or your hands to apply the mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even Coating: Ensure that each chicken breast is evenly coated with the mayonnaise mixture for the best flavor and texture.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and juicy.
• Let it Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.
• Use Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, this recipe works with thighs or drumsticks as well. Just increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness.

How to Serve

This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or a vegetable medley.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping and makes a great addition to salads or wraps the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave the chicken, but it’s best to cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well with this recipe. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer to cook through.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Parmesan is a great choice, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

3. Can I use low-fat mayonnaise or a vegan alternative?

Yes, feel free to use low-fat mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a vegan mayo substitute for a lighter version of the recipe.

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

You can marinate the chicken in the mayonnaise mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for added flavor, though this step is optional.

6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken with the mayonnaise coating and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

8. Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the baking time to 35-40 minutes.

9. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool before wrapping and freezing.

10. What side dishes go well with this chicken?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

This Chicken Breast Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a creamy, savory coating. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, it’s easy to make and customizable to suit your preferences. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe is a great option for anyone looking to elevate their chicken breasts with minimal effort. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and spiced flavors with this delicious and versatile dish!

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