Looking for a quick dinner that’s rich, juicy, and ready in no time? This Chicken Breast Recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken topped with a creamy Parmesan crust that melts beautifully in the oven. You’ll love how simple it is — just mix, spread, and bake! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without fuss. Every bite is savory, cheesy, and so satisfying that even picky eaters clean their plates. Whether you use mayo, Greek yogurt, or sour cream, this recipe always turns out moist and delicious.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Recipe
You’ll love this Chicken Breast Recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and full of flavor. It only takes about 10 minutes to prep and uses ingredients you probably already have. The creamy Parmesan topping locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy and tender every single time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can season it your way — smoky, herby, or spicy — depending on your mood. Also, cleanup is easy since it bakes in one dish. It’s a no-stress dinner that works for weeknights, meal prep, or even casual guests. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
You’ll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup of mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. These basics build that creamy, savory flavor we all love.
Optional Add-Ins and Substitutions
Add ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning for color and a mild kick. You can also swap mayo for sour cream for a lighter version, or switch Parmesan for Gruyere, Asiago, or cheddar for a richer twist.
How to Make This Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, pound your chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Mix and Apply the Topping
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread this topping evenly over each chicken breast so every piece is coated completely.
Bake to Perfection
Place the chicken in your prepared dish. Optionally, sprinkle with paprika or Italian seasoning. Bake uncovered for 25–45 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to create a golden crust. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Results
For perfect results, always pound the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly. Also, use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking. If you notice liquid in the baking dish, don’t worry — it’s natural juices from the chicken. You can drain it before broiling for a crisper topping. For lighter results, try Greek yogurt; for richer flavor, stick with mayo or sour cream. Finally, always let it rest after baking so the juices settle back into the meat. Small steps like these make a big difference in tenderness and taste.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
You can make this Chicken Breast Recipe fit any craving. Add Italian seasoning or basil for a Mediterranean feel, or try cumin and chili powder for a Tex-Mex version. Want something smoky? Sprinkle on smoked paprika or cayenne. You can also change the cheese — Gruyere adds a nutty touch, while cheddar gives it a sharper edge. Every variation keeps that juicy base but lets you play with flavors your family loves.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with light sides. Try it with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or simple steamed rice. It’s also amazing with pasta tossed in olive oil or garlic butter. The creamy topping balances out bright sides like lemony broccoli or fresh tomatoes. If you like easy dinners, pair it with garlic bread or a baked potato for a cozy, full meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and warm in the microwave or bake gently until hot. Avoid freezing — the creamy layer may separate and lose its smooth texture. This recipe still tastes great the next day, making it perfect for quick lunches or meal prep.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
- Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Sandwiches
- Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
Conclusion
This Chicken Breast Recipe is simple, creamy, and full of flavor. With minimal effort, you get juicy chicken and a golden topping everyone loves. It’s flexible enough for weeknights or weekend comfort food, and easy to tweak for any taste. Try it once, and it’ll become a family favorite. For more dinner ideas and creative inspiration, visit my Pinterest page.
Creamy Baked Chicken Breast
Equipment
- Oven Preheated to 375°F (190°C)
- 9×13-inch baking dish Lightly greased
- Mixing bowl For the creamy mixture
- Meat thermometer To check doneness at 165°F
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder or seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pound chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness for even cooking.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt/sour cream), Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly over chicken breasts. Place in baking dish and sprinkle optional seasoning.
- Bake uncovered for 25–45 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil 2–3 minutes for a golden top. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
