
This tender chicken dish features a creamy parmesan topping that turns dinner into something special without taking forever. It's ideal for hectic nights when you want a tasty but easy meal.
What You Need
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: cooks evenly and easy to eat
- 2/3 cup mayo: makes a creamy layer that seals in moisture
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan: gives a salty cheesy crust that melts nicely
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: adds gentle warm flavor, fresh ground works best
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt: brings balanced taste, pick blends without MSG or extras
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: offers a mild heat that pairs great with parmesan, freshly cracked is ideal
Easy Steps
- Heat the Oven:
- Preheat to 375°F and wait till it’s fully hot. This helps cook chicken evenly and crisp up the topping.
- Mix the Topping:
- In a bowl, stir together mayo, Parmesan, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Lay Out the Chicken:
- Arrange chicken in a baking dish without overlapping to avoid steaming and ensure even cooking.
- Spread the Topping:
- Cover each piece generously with the parmesan mix. Make sure each breast is fully coated for a tasty crust.
- Bake Until Done:
- Put the dish in the oven and cook for 40-45 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F inside so it stays juicy and safe.

Keep It Fresh
Put any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Warm it up in the oven or microwave carefully so the crust doesn’t dry out.
Swap Ideas
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo if you want it lighter but expect a tangier flavor. You can switch Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite or cheddar for a milder taste.
How to Serve
Try roasted green beans or asparagus tossed with lemon and garlic to brighten things up. A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the richness nicely.

Common Recipe Questions
- → Which chicken cut should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best since they cook evenly and soak up that creamy parmesan topping nicely.
- → Can I tweak the parmesan mix with other spices?
Definitely! A little red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme can give it some extra zip.
- → How can I tell the chicken is done?
When the inside hits 165°F and the juices run clear, the chicken’s ready to eat.
- → Is it possible to prep this ahead of time?
You can mix the parmesan topping earlier but bake the chicken right before you want to eat to keep it just right.
- → What’s good to serve on the side?
This dish goes great with roasted veggies or a crisp green salad to balance that creamy flavor.
- → Can I swap out mayonnaise for something else?
You can try sour cream or Greek yogurt, though it might change the creaminess a bit.