Chicken Breast Recipe | Melt-in-Your-Mouth Creamy Dinner Classic

If you’re searching for a simple and flavorful chicken breast recipe that’s creamy, moist, and oven-baked to perfection, this one checks every box. It uses everyday ingredients like mayonnaise and Parmesan to create a savory crust that locks in moisture while baking. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a golden top and rich flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this easy recipe brings maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. It’s exactly the kind of no-fuss comfort food we love here at Richy Bites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken breast recipe is perfect when you need something that’s reliable, easy, and packed with flavor. The topping made of mayo, Parmesan, and seasonings guarantees moisture, even if you tend to overcook chicken. Everything comes together in one bowl and bakes in a single dish. You’ll love it because it’s:

Moist and flavorful with a cheesy, creamy crust
Quick to prepare with less than 10 minutes of prep time
Perfect for beginner cooks and busy weeknights
Great with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple and easy to find. Each plays a role in making the chicken tender, savory, and golden on top.

Chicken Breasts (4, boneless and skinless): These are the star of the dish. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Mayonnaise (1 cup): This is the base of the topping. It seals in moisture and helps the Parmesan brown beautifully in the oven. You can also use plain Greek yogurt if you want a lighter, tangier version.

Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Parmesan adds depth and richness. It melts into the mayo for a savory topping that becomes crisp and golden while baking.

Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): A key seasoning that brings warmth and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): This works with the garlic to build a solid savory base and balance the richness.

Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings out the flavor of the chicken and the seasonings. Be careful not to overdo it, since Parmesan is salty too.

Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a touch of sharpness and heat that cuts through the creaminess of the topping.

Optional: Paprika or Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon): Sprinkle one of these on top before baking to add extra flavor and color. Paprika gives a smoky note, while Italian herbs add freshness.

This simple combination creates a creamy, flavorful coating that keeps the chicken moist and adds a satisfying finish.

How to Make Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast

Making this chicken breast recipe is incredibly straightforward. You pound the chicken, mix the topping, coat the chicken, and bake. There’s no flipping, frying, or worrying about moisture loss. The creamy topping handles that for you.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Pound the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to pound them to about ¾-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Lay the pounded chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top of each breast, covering them completely. This will form the crust as they bake.

Step 5: Add Optional Seasoning
Sprinkle paprika or Italian seasoning over the top if using. This gives an extra boost of flavor and a pop of color.

Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes. Thicker breasts will take longer. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Let It Rest
Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle and keeps each bite tender.

Step 8: Serve
Serve warm with your favorite side dishes. This chicken goes well with steamed greens, roasted potatoes, or even pasta.

Helpful Tips

Use a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to avoid overcooked chicken.
Broil during the last 2 to 3 minutes for a crispier top.
Pounding the chicken to even thickness is key for perfect texture.
Swap the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Let the chicken rest before slicing so juices stay inside.
If you like heat, mix a pinch of cayenne into the mayo mixture.

Details

Flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and garlicky
Texture: Juicy inside with a lightly crisp, savory top
Occasion: Easy weeknight dinner or meal prep essential
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Notes and Variations

If you’re following a low-carb or keto plan, this recipe fits in easily. It’s naturally low in carbs and very filling. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You’ll still get a creamy texture with a slight tang that works well with Parmesan. To change up the flavor, try using Asiago or Romano cheese, or stir chopped herbs like parsley or thyme into the topping mixture. You can even prepare everything in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Fat	30 g
Protein	36 g
Carbohydrates	3 g
Sugar	1 g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep chicken breast moist when cooking?
Use a creamy topping like this one. Also, avoid overbaking and let the chicken rest before slicing.

Is it better to bake or pan-fry chicken breast?
Baking gives even heat and less mess. Pan-frying adds a crust but can dry out the chicken if not watched carefully.

How long should I cook a chicken breast?
Bake at 375°F for 35 to 45 minutes. The internal temperature should be 165°F for safety and moisture.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but they need to be thawed or cooked longer. Always check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap each portion tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust texture.

Related Recipes (With Internal Links)

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Amish Harvest Casserole
Spinach Dip Graveyard Scene
Hello Fresh Bulgogi Sauce Recipe
Pop Tart Cookie Bars
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Conclusion

This chicken breast recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly satisfying. With its creamy, flavorful topping and juicy texture, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want something stress-free, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.