Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about my love affair with Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen and a favorite among family and friends. I remember the first time I made it—my friends were over for dinner, and I was nervous because I wanted to impress them. The moment I pulled this golden, crispy chicken out of the oven, the entire room was filled with the most mouthwatering aroma! Let’s just say, there was barely a crumb left!
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the way it elevates everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. With just a handful of items, including the magical duo of mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, you’ll create a dish that’s worthy of any dinner party while still being perfect for a cozy weeknight meal at home.
What’s in Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish a winner:
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook evenly and are easy to handle. Make sure they’re pounded to an even thickness for optimal cooking.
Mayonnaise: This brings the magical creaminess to the dish and helps the crumb crust stick. I usually reach for a classic brand like Hellmann’s, but feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling adventurous!
Parmesan Cheese: The star of the show! I always use freshly grated Parmesan because it gives a deeper flavor and a better crust. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated works too, but fresh is best!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are essential for that crispy coating. They create a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken. I love the Japanese-style panko for its light and airy texture.
Seasonings: I usually go for garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt and pepper, but you can customize this to your taste. A touch of Italian seasoning adds that extra flair!
Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question: is this deliciousness actually good for you? Well, let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: A great source of lean protein, chicken breasts help build and repair muscles. They’re low in fat, especially when you trim the skin off.
Mayonnaise: While mayonnaise does have a higher fat content, it’s the good kind of fat (monounsaturated) found in oils, which can be beneficial in moderation. You could even use a lighter version if you’d like!
Parmesan Cheese: This delightful cheese adds calcium to your diet. Yes, it’s higher in sodium, so moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
So, while it’s not what you’d call “health food,” in moderation, this recipe can fit into a balanced diet—especially when paired with a healthy side like veggies or a salad.
Ingredients List
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get your kitchen ready for that heavenly aroma!
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture will help the crust stick.
3. On a large plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Take each chicken breast, and spread a generous layer of the mayo mixture all over one side.
5. Press that mayo-covered side into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Give it a little pat to ensure it sticks.
6. Place the chicken breasts, coated side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
8. Serve hot and bask in the compliments!
Creative Serving Suggestions
This dish is truly versatile! You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or even some fluffy mashed potatoes for a lovely comfort meal. If you want to spice it up, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving for a tangy kick.
Sometimes, I like to make a dipping sauce with a bit of ranch or even mix up a garlic aioli for that extra deliciousness!
I hope you give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo a try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and who knows—you might create some sweet memories just like I did! I’d love to hear how it turns out, so don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
