This Melt in Your Mouth Chicken is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s juicy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. The mayo and parmesan topping creates a golden crust, while keeping the chicken tender and moist on the inside. Plus, it’s a dish that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (or sharp Cheddar, Asiago, or your favorite cheese)
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
- Soak the Chicken:
- Start by cutting each chicken breast into 3 large chunks or strips. This helps the chicken cook faster and ensures every bite is coated in that delicious creamy topping.
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl of milk or buttermilk and let them soak for 20-30 minutes. If you have the time, soaking them overnight in the fridge will give the chicken even more flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Make the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, and seasonings: seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will create a creamy, cheesy layer on top of the chicken as it bakes.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the soaked chicken pieces into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mayo-parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish!
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The mayo and cheese topping should turn golden and slightly crispy.
- If you want to get that perfect golden-brown crust on top, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning!
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken with a side of steamed veggies, like broccoli (fresh or frozen), or roasted veggies like carrots or green beans. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and extra flavor!
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be a bit juicier than chicken breasts, so you might end up with an even more tender result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using bone-in thighs.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- A: Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover the dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prep or if you want to get a head start on dinner.
Q: Can I make this with a different cheese?
- A: Definitely! You can swap the parmesan for cheddar, asiago, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor a bit, but they’ll still be delicious.
Q: What can I serve with this chicken?
- A: This chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. You can serve it with steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh side salad. It’s a great all-purpose main dish.
Why This Recipe is a Winner:
- Super Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a delicious, flavorful meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Tender & Juicy: The combination of soaking the chicken and the creamy topping ensures each bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Family-Friendly: With its cheesy, creamy coating, this is a dish that everyone from kids to adults will love. It’s a great way to get some extra veggies on the plate too!
- Customizable: Whether you stick with the basic mayo-parmesan topping or add your own twist, this dish can be easily adapted to your preferences.
This Melt in Your Mouth Chicken is the perfect weeknight meal that feels a little indulgent without being complicated. So, grab that rotisserie chicken and get ready for a tender, cheesy, and downright irresistible dinner! 🍗🧀