Name: Melt in Your Mouth Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt); 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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This baked chicken dish truly lives up to its name. With tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful topping, I get a melt-in-my-mouth experience every time I make it. The golden, savory crust formed from Parmesan and seasoned mayo makes this an effortless crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknights or family dinners.

Melt in Your Mouth Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple it is to put together—just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time. The chicken always turns out incredibly moist thanks to the mayo-based coating. Plus, it’s flexible: I can swap the mayo with Greek yogurt when I want a lighter version, and it still tastes amazing. It’s comfort food that doesn’t need a lot of effort, which makes it a regular in my rotation.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels, then lay them in a lightly greased baking dish.
In a bowl, I mix together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
I spread this mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
I bake everything for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown.
After letting it rest for 5 minutes, I serve it alongside steamed veggies or a crisp salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo mix for some heat.
Herb twist: When I’m in the mood for fresh flavors, I mix in chopped fresh parsley or thyme.
Cheese swap: I’ve tried using mozzarella or a Parmesan-Romano blend for a different cheesy finish.
Breadcrumb topping: For extra crunch, I sprinkle a few seasoned breadcrumbs over the top before baking.

storage/reheating

Once cooled, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes. The microwave works too, but the oven helps keep the topping from getting soggy.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The juices should also run clear.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the chicken and topping ahead and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake—just allow for a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s going in cold.

Is there a dairy-free option?

I can substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a dairy-free mayo to make it suitable for those avoiding dairy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. I’ve made this with boneless, skinless thighs—they come out just as tender. I just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Why use mayonnaise instead of butter or cream?

Mayonnaise locks in moisture and helps create a creamy, golden crust. I find it much easier to work with and more consistent in results compared to butter or cream.

Conclusion

Melt in Your Mouth Chicken is one of those recipes I keep coming back to. It’s rich, flavorful, easy to throw together, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I’m cooking for guests or just craving something comforting on a busy night, this dish never disappoints.