– **Title**: Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing
– **Instructions**:
1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.
2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. **Prepare the Coating**: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. **Coat the Chicken**: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each chicken breast first in the mayonnaise mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
5. **Arrange and Bake**: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter over the top for extra flavor and moisture.
6. **Bake**: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
7. **Serve**: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or green vegetables. Enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth chicken!
This recipe ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy while the coating provides a satisfying crunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, you can substitute them with chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well. For a dairy-free version, try using homemade or store-bought vegan mayo.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nutty flavor and a nice crust when baked. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning give the chicken a boost of flavor. Feel free to use fresh minced garlic or herbs, like oregano or thyme, if you have them on hand for a fresh twist!
How Can You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, the key is in how you bake it. First, don’t skip the resting step after baking—this allows the juices to redistribute. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature and aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Coat the chicken generously with the mayonnaise mixture for added moisture.
- Keep an eye on baking time, as smaller chicken breasts will cook faster.
How to Make Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and juicy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready when you’re all set with the chicken.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with the olive oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and help with easy cleanup later on.
3. Mix the Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks smooth.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure they have a little space between them—this will allow them to cook evenly.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Spread the mayonnaise mixture generously over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated. This creamy topping will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle so your chicken stays nice and tender. Then, serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth chicken!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise! This will reduce the fat content while still providing creaminess. Use the same amount (1/2 cup) and mix it with the Parmesan and spices just as directed. The taste will be slightly tangier, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken with the mayonnaise mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge to ensure it cooks through properly.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, then heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
What Should I Serve with Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast?
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, roasted broccoli or a cauliflower mash would be great choices!
