Chicken Breast Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Option

This simple yet flavorful Chicken Breast Recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. The creamy mayonnaise or Greek yogurt pairs wonderfully with Parmesan cheese, creating a rich coating for the chicken. Seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper, this recipe delivers a tender, juicy chicken breast with a flavorful crispy crust. Garnish with fresh parsley, and you have an easy dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal that can be prepped ahead of time, this chicken breast recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this chicken breast recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy nights.

2. Juicy and Tender

The combination of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and Parmesan cheese creates a juicy and tender chicken breast with a slight crispy exterior that is both flavorful and satisfying.

3. Flavorful Seasoning

The seasoning blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika provides a balanced flavor profile that isn’t too overpowering, just enough to complement the chicken’s natural taste.

4. Versatile for Any Meal

This chicken recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or salads, making it a versatile choice for dinner. It’s also easy to make it part of meal prep for the week.

5. Simple Ingredients

The ingredients for this recipe are easy to find and pantry-friendly, meaning you can make it anytime without having to worry about special ingredients.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

• Add Spices: If you want a bit of extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper, chili powder, or Italian seasoning to the seasoning mix.
• Low-Carb Option: If you’re on a low-carb diet, replace the mayonnaise with a low-carb alternative or stick to Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed option.
• Crispier Coating: For an extra-crispy chicken, dip the seasoned chicken breasts in breadcrumbs or panko crumbs before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Mayo-Parmesan Mixture

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Spread a generous amount of the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast, covering them completely.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Do Not Overcook: To ensure the chicken remains juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use Skinless Chicken Breasts: This recipe works best with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook evenly and stay tender.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain its juices, keeping the meat tender and moist.

How to Serve

Serve this Chicken Breast Recipe with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with a simple dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze the cooked chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating in the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts. Thighs tend to be a bit juicier and will require a slightly longer cooking time.

2. Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar.

3. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

While the recipe is designed for baking, you can pan-fry the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

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

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

5. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking dish. Just make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

6. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise for a lighter version of this recipe. It will still provide creaminess and flavor.

7. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before using them in this recipe. If you need to cook them from frozen, increase the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some spice, try mixing in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the mayo-Parmesan mixture.

9. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken breasts and coat them with the mayo-Parmesan mixture ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

10. How do I make sure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

Make sure to not overcook the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Breast Recipe is an easy and delicious option for any night of the week. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tender, flavorful chicken dish that’s sure to satisfy. The creamy mayo-Parmesan coating and seasoning combination adds rich flavor, while the crispy exterior keeps the chicken juicy inside. Whether served with a side of veggies or over rice, this simple yet tasty recipe is one your family will love.

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