Chicken Breast Recipe

This Chicken Breast Recipe is a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. With a creamy, cheesy topping made from mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and spices, the chicken is baked to golden perfection. It’s an effortless meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!

Why Chicken Breast Recipe is So Irresistible

What makes Chicken Breast Recipe so irresistible is the combination of juicy chicken and a rich, creamy Parmesan topping. The mayonnaise creates a moist base, while the cheese gives the dish a flavorful, golden crust. The garlic, onion powder, and paprika add the perfect depth of flavor, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

Chicken Breast Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Breast Recipe

Here’s how to make this simple, delicious dish:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Topping
   In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken
   Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
4. Bake the Chicken
   Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Once the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden, remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Breast Recipe

For this recipe, these ingredients are essential:

• Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: These provide a creamy base for the topping and keep the chicken moist while baking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor and forms a delicious crust on top of the chicken.
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika bring depth of flavor, complementing the cheese and chicken.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and are perfect for a simple, weeknight meal.

Exploring Variations for Your Chicken Breast Recipe

This dish is easily customizable! For extra flavor, you can add lemon zest or a dash of cayenne pepper to the topping mixture. You can also swap the mayonnaise for sour cream or use different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great substitute.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Breast Recipe Every Time

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect, juicy results.
• Spread the topping evenly: Make sure the mayonnaise mixture is evenly spread over the chicken to create a uniform, golden crust.
• Let the chicken rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.

The Magic of the Topping

The magic of Chicken Breast Recipe lies in the creamy, cheesy topping. The combination of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and spices creates a rich, flavorful crust that seals in the chicken’s moisture and adds a delicious layer of savory goodness.

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Chicken Breast Recipe (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 42g
• Fiber: 0g

For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and reduce the amount of cheese.

Storing and Freezing Your Chicken Breast Recipe

To Store: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Breast Recipe

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pasta or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Baking dish for cooking the chicken
• Small bowl for mixing the topping
• Knife and cutting board for slicing the chicken and garnishing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to 6-7 minutes per side, as thighs take a bit longer to cook.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be golden brown on the top and juicy inside.

What can I serve with Chicken Breast Recipe?
This chicken is delicious with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make the topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just spread it on the chicken before baking.

How long does leftover Chicken Breast Recipe last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Key Takeaways

Chicken Breast Recipe is a simple, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and full of comforting, cheesy goodness. With just a few ingredients, it’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion!