Best Baked Chicken
Every time we conduct a survey on the blog and ask what kinds of new recipes our readers would like to see, the number one request is always the same: Chicken. Specifically, recipes that call for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Not thighs, not legs, not wings—all of which I personally also love. Nope, everyone seems to be obsessed with the lean white meat that comes with chicken breasts, especially when you don’t have to deal with any skin or bones. Plus, as lean proteins go, chicken is pretty affordable, extremely versatile to work with, and let’s be real—you can make it taste like just about anything you like!
However, anyone who has cooked whole chicken breasts before will tell you that they can be annoyingly finicky to work with, especially when baked in the oven. Cook them the wrong way, and you’ll end up with a dry, rubbery, tough, and flavorless disaster. But cooked the right way? We’re talking juicy, tender, flavorful deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked chicken recipe is going to change the way you think about chicken breasts. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and results in a dish that is anything but boring. The combination of mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese keeps the chicken moist and adds a delightful savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer
- Medium-sized bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs, finely crushed
- 1-1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer.
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix all ingredients except the chicken until well blended.
- Coat the top and sides of the chicken breasts with the mayonnaise mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is deep golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. You can pound them to ensure they cook uniformly. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mayonnaise mixture for an extra burst of flavor. You can also try using panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This recipe provides a good amount of protein while being relatively low in carbohydrates. The mayonnaise and cheese add healthy fats, making this a balanced dish when paired with some greens or a side salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may change since thighs are generally thicker and have bones.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the mayonnaise mixture and coat the chicken in advance, but it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal juiciness.
Conclusion
I hope you give this Best Baked Chicken recipe a try. It’s a simple, delicious way to enjoy chicken breasts without any fuss. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please share your experiences in the comments below!