Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe – Easy Baked Chicken with a Golden Cheese Topping
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an easy baked chicken recipe made with tender chicken breasts, creamy mayonnaise, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The result is juicy chicken topped with a rich, savory Parmesan crust that turns beautifully golden and bubbly under the broiler.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this easy Parmesan chicken recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 1.5–2 pounds total
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, such as Duke’s or Hellmann’s
- 1/2 cup freshly grated or finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×11-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This helps the Parmesan topping adhere better during baking.
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper if using.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
4. Add the Parmesan Crust
Spread a generous layer of the Parmesan mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Make sure the chicken is well covered for the best golden crust.
5. Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
6. Broil for a Golden Crust
For an extra golden, bubbling Parmesan crust, switch the oven to High Broil during the final 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling because the cheese topping can brown quickly.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest in the baking dish for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps keep the chicken tender.
