Description
This recipe delivers golden, ultra-crispy Parmesan crusted chicken breasts using a simple mayonnaise base instead of a messy breading station. It locks in moisture for juicy results and cooks on a single baking sheet in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; pound thick breasts to an even 3/4-inch thickness.
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Mix the mayonnaise with the garlic powder and black pepper until smooth in a small bowl.
- Spread the seasoned mayonnaise evenly over the top and sides of each chicken breast.
- In a separate shallow bowl, toss the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and olive oil until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Generously mound the breadcrumb mixture onto each mayonnaise-coated chicken breast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake on the center rack for 15–20 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- Verify the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- If needed, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and crunch.
- Patting the chicken dry is crucial for proper mayo adhesion and crust texture.
- Mixing oil or butter into the breadcrumbs promotes even browning.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American