Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
A quick and easy weeknight dinner, Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast features juicy oven-baked chicken topped with a creamy, tangy Parmesan crust. Ready in 30 minutes, this comfort-food classic is perfect for families and foodies alike!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a medium-sized baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or brushing it with oil. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Prepare the topping mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option), grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly blended. This topping is the secret to the melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor.
- Coat the chicken: Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts flat in the baking dish. Spoon the creamy mixture over each piece, spreading it generously to fully cover the tops. Make sure the coating is evenly distributed—this is what locks in the moisture and creates the delicious crust.
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The topping should be bubbling slightly and starting to turn golden.
- Optional – Broil for added color: For a more golden and crispy finish, switch your oven to broil during the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the topping.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice.
Notes
Pros
- Incredibly juicy and flavorful with minimal effort
- Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for weeknights
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients
- Easily customizable (spicy, low-fat, etc.)
Cons
- Uses mayonnaise, which some may prefer to avoid
- Not suitable for dairy-free diets without modification
- Needs oven access – not a stovetop-only recipe