Easy & Flavorful Mayo Parmesan Chicken: Your New Favorite Baked Weeknight Meal

Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for the most incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken breasts you’ve ever made! This easy-to-follow recipe for Mayo and Parmesan Chicken consistently delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken that’s bursting with savory, herby, and cheesy goodness. Crafted with just a handful of simple ingredients, this mayonnaise parmesan chicken is the ultimate solution for stress-free weeknight dinners. Simply spread a delicious, aromatic mayo mixture over boneless, skinless chicken breasts, then bake until they reach a beautiful golden-brown perfection. As an added bonus, this versatile dish is naturally keto, low carb, and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for various dietary needs.

For many years now, this particular recipe has been a staple in my kitchen. It’s a cherished adaptation from a low carb and keto cookbook, which I’ve since perfected and made my own. My unique version enhances the original with a robust blend of Italian-inspired seasonings and a generous amount of extra parmesan cheese. This combination creates a beautifully herby mayo and parmesan-crusted chicken that promises a delightful aroma and an even more satisfying taste. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary.

As the primary cook for my family, I absolutely adore this mayo parmesan chicken recipe because of its unparalleled ease. On those busy weeknights when time is short but a delicious, wholesome meal is still a priority, this recipe shines. All it requires is a quick mixing of creamy mayonnaise, fragrant herbs, and sharp parmesan cheese in a single bowl. The prep is so minimal, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making this all along!

Once that flavorful mixture is ready, it’s simply spread over some basic boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and then dinner is ready for the oven. This is where the mayonnaise truly works its magic. Far from making the chicken greasy, it acts as a tenderizing agent, locking in moisture and ensuring the chicken comes out incredibly juicy and with a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will impress even the pickiest eaters. The fat in the mayonnaise also helps to create that perfect golden crust, while the parmesan crisps up beautifully, adding another layer of flavor and texture.

But the benefits of this delicious recipe don’t stop there. Beyond its incredible taste and ease of preparation, this dish is also remarkably wholesome. It’s packed with high-quality protein, inherently low carb, perfectly suitable for a keto diet, and completely gluten-free. This means it’s a versatile meal that genuinely caters to the diverse dietary needs of many families, allowing everyone to enjoy the same delicious, healthy meal together without compromise.

And for those who appreciate an extra layer of crunch on their chicken? This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to elevate the texture by adding a sprinkle of classic breadcrumbs for a familiar crisp. If you’re keeping it low-carb or keto, a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds offers a fantastic savory crunch. Alternatively, a mixture of fine almond flour and additional parmesan cheese creates a wonderfully textured, golden crust that’s both flavorful and compliant with special diets. This optional step allows you to customize the dish to your preference, adding another dimension of enjoyment.

Why This Mayo Parmesan Chicken Will Become Your Favorite:

1. It’s an incredibly easy recipe that relies on just a few common, simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. No complicated techniques or obscure items required!
2. Perfect for busy weeknights thanks to its minimal and straightforward prep. Just a few minutes to mix, spread, and pop it into the oven, freeing you up to focus on other tasks.
3. This easy dinner recipe is an excellent choice for anyone following a low carb, gluten-free, or keto lifestyle, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that fits their dietary requirements.
4. Even picky eaters will adore it! The rich, melt-in-your-mouth chicken, coupled with its savory parmesan crust, makes this a genuine family favorite that’s sure to get rave reviews.
5. It offers incredible versatility, pairing beautifully with a wide range of side dishes, from fresh salads to hearty roasted vegetables.

Key Ingredients for Your Mayo Parmesan Chicken

• Chicken breasts: You’ll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. For the most even cooking and best results, aim for pieces that are relatively uniform in thickness. Smaller, thinner breasts tend to cook more evenly. If your chicken breasts are larger or thicker than about ¾-inch, I highly recommend placing them between two layers of plastic wrap and gently pounding them with a meat mallet (or the flat side of a heavy pan) until they are flattened to an even thickness. This ensures they cook thoroughly without drying out.
• Mayonnaise: This is the star ingredient that creates the incredibly moist and tender texture, and it’s absolutely crucial for the recipe’s success! The high fat content in mayonnaise prevents the chicken from drying out in the oven, ensuring a succulent result. While I’ve seen similar recipes using Greek yogurt, I haven’t personally tested a full substitution with it. However, I’ve had great success using a half-mayo, half-Greek yogurt mixture, which offers a slightly tangier flavor while maintaining some of the mayonnaise’s tenderizing properties. If you opt for Greek yogurt, choose a full-fat, plain variety.
• Parmesan cheese: For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend using freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Its nutty, salty profile is unparalleled. However, if you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded parmesan can also work. Just be aware that pre-shredded varieties sometimes contain anti-caking agents that can slightly alter the texture when baked.
• Seasonings: A harmonious mix of dried seasonings keeps this recipe incredibly simple while delivering maximum flavor. You’ll need dried basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. These classic Italian-inspired herbs complement the parmesan beautifully. Feel free to enhance the savory notes further by adding a touch of onion powder if you enjoy its flavor. Remember, quality dried herbs make a difference, so ensure yours aren’t past their prime.

Optional Crispy Toppings

• Breadcrumbs: For a delightful, familiar crunch, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of panko or Italian breadcrumbs over the mayo mixture before baking. This creates a wonderfully golden and crispy crust.
• Low carb/keto/gluten-free alternatives: If you’re maintaining a low carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, you still have fantastic options for a crispy topping! Try a light sprinkle of finely crushed pork rinds for a savory, salty crunch, or use a mixture of almond flour and additional grated parmesan cheese for a nutty, crispy crust that stays compliant with your dietary needs.

Essential Equipment

• Sheet pan: A sturdy baking sheet is essential. Make sure it’s large enough to space your four chicken breasts at least an inch or so apart. This ensures even cooking and allows air to circulate, promoting a nicely browned crust. I often use a quarter-size USA sheet pan for smaller batches, but a half-size USA sheet pan is ideal for four chicken breasts. For an even crispier bottom, consider placing the chicken on a metal baking rack set inside the sheet pan. This elevates the chicken, allowing air to circulate underneath and preventing it from becoming soggy.
• Meat thermometer: This is truly an indispensable tool in any home kitchen, especially when cooking poultry! The only reliable way to know if your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat (without overcooking it into dryness) is to check its internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding any bones. Anything 165ºF (74ºC) and above is perfectly safe and ready to enjoy!

How to Make Delicious Mayo and Parmesan Chicken Breasts

Making this chicken dish is incredibly straightforward, involving just a few simple steps to ensure perfectly juicy and flavorful results every time.

Step one: Prepare the mayo mixture. In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend of ingredients forms the flavorful crust for your chicken.

Step two: Mix until smooth. Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until the mayonnaise mixture is smooth and uniform. Ensure all the herbs and cheese are well incorporated into the mayo, creating a consistent spread.

Preparing the Chicken for Baking

Step three: Arrange chicken on a sheet pan. Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly on a prepared baking sheet (lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup). Make sure there’s at least an inch of space between each chicken breast; this promotes even cooking and browning.

Step four: Spread the mayo mixture. Take the prepared mayo and parmesan mixture and generously spread approximately ¼th of it over the top of each chicken breast. Aim for an even layer that completely covers the surface of the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Baking the Chicken to Perfection

Step five: Add optional crispy topping (if desired). If you’re craving an extra layer of texture, now is the time to sprinkle your chosen crispy topping. This could be breadcrumbs, crushed pork rinds, a mix of almond flour and additional parmesan cheese, or simply more grated parmesan cheese directly onto the mayo-covered chicken breasts.

Step six: Bake until golden and cooked through. Place the sheet pan into an oven that has been preheated to 350ºF (177ºC). Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is perfectly cooked when the thickest part of each breast reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC). For an extra golden-brown and crispy topping, you can finish by broiling for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, and then serve immediately to enjoy this incredibly tender and flavorful dish! I particularly love to pair this rich chicken with fresh, vibrant side dishes. Roasted veggies, like my recipe for roasted potatoes and broccoli, offer a comforting balance. Alternatively, a refreshing salad such as a crisp garden salad or Swedish pizza salad provides a lovely contrast.

Hint: Always prioritize checking the internal temperature of the chicken with a reliable meat thermometer. This is the best way to ensure your chicken is safe to eat while preventing overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed for thinner or thicker breasts.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is so delicious, you might not have many leftovers! But if you do, they store beautifully. Allow any leftover chicken breasts to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them securely on a plate with aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days.

To reheat, you have a couple of excellent options. For a quick reheat, the microwave works well, though it might soften the crispy crust. For a crisper result that’s closer to freshly baked, reheat the chicken in an air fryer set to 350ºF (or use its “reheat” function) for a few minutes until warmed through and the crust is revitalized.

Delicious Sides to Serve with Mayonnaise Chicken

The versatility of Mayo Parmesan Chicken means it pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite suggestions to complete your meal, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Classic Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons (or keto-friendly alternatives) make for a satisfying combination.
• Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw adds a delightful texture and slight tang.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or carrots, lightly seasoned, are healthy and easy accompaniments.
• Mashed Potatoes: A timeless comfort food that perfectly soaks up any flavorful juices from the chicken.
• Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, creamy mashed cauliflower is a fantastic choice.
• Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Serve alongside fluffy white or brown rice, or opt for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
• Baby Potatoes: Try my Instant Pot baby potatoes for a quick and easy side.
• Parmesan Crusted Potatoes: Double down on the parmesan goodness with these savory potatoes.

Variations and Smart Substitutions

This Mayo Parmesan Chicken recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for various adaptations to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:

Shortcut with Italian Seasoning: If you’re looking to save a little time without sacrificing flavor, you can easily substitute the individual basil, oregano, and thyme measurements with an equal amount (approximately 1 ¾ teaspoons) of a good quality pre-mixed Italian seasoning blend. This will still give you that wonderful herby profile.

Experiment with Greek Yogurt: While I haven’t fully tested this recipe with 100% Greek yogurt, I have successfully made a delicious version using a blend of half mayonnaise and half plain Greek yogurt. This adds a subtle tanginess and a slightly lighter feel. If you decide to try this, I recommend using a higher-fat plain Greek yogurt (around 5-8% fat if you can find it) to help maintain the chicken’s moisture and richness during baking.

Considering Miracle Whip: For those who enjoy the unique flavor of Miracle Whip, it could likely work as a substitute for mayonnaise in terms of texture and moisture. However, it’s important to remember that Miracle Whip has a sweeter flavor profile compared to traditional mayonnaise. If you need the recipe to remain low carb or keto-friendly, it’s best to stick with regular mayonnaise, as Miracle Whip contains added sugars.

Naturally Gluten-Free: The core recipe for Mayo Parmesan Chicken is already gluten-free as written, making it a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. If you choose to add a crispy topping, simply ensure your selection is also gluten-free. Excellent choices include certified gluten-free breadcrumbs, crunchy crushed pork rinds, or a delicious mixture of almond flour and additional parmesan cheese. This ensures everyone can enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal.

More Delicious Low Carb Dinner Recipes to Try

If you loved this easy and flavorful low carb chicken dish, here are some other fantastic low-carb dinner recipes from my kitchen that you might enjoy:

• Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage and Peppers
• Cilantro Lime Salmon and Veggies
• Inside Out Egg Roll (in a Bowl)
• Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Chicken
• John Wayne Casserole

If you truly loved this simple yet sensational recipe for Mayo Parmesan Chicken, please consider letting me know by leaving a 5-star review in the recipe card below or dropping a comment! Your feedback means the world. You can also share your culinary creations and tag me on Instagram @dashfordinner. I love seeing your delicious dishes!