Melt in Your Mouth Chicken

This famous, ultra-tender baked chicken recipe lives up to its name—it’s juicy, flavorful, and so tender it truly seems to “melt” with each bite. An easy, crowd-pleasing dinner.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4–6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best texture)

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (like Lawry’s) or kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried parsley

• Optional: Paprika or smoked paprika for color

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets (about ½–¾ inch thick). Pat chicken dry with paper towels.

3. Make the coating: In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, seasoning salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

4. Coat the chicken: Spread a thick, even layer of the mayo-cheese mixture over each piece of chicken, covering completely. Place coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.

5. Optional sprinkle: Lightly dust with paprika for added color.

6. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and topping is golden brown.

7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip the mayo—it creates a moist, rich crust that locks in moisture.

• For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the coating for 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.

• If using thighs, adjust cooking time slightly (may need 5–10 minutes longer).

• Great served with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious juices.

Variations:

• Add heat: Mix in ½ teaspoon cayenne or chili powder to the coating.

• Lemon herb: Add zest of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary or thyme.

• Crunchy topping: Mix ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs into the mayo-cheese mixture before baking.

Enjoy this incredibly easy, foolproof chicken dish that’s guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite!