Mayo Chicken Recipe

Name: Mayo Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into 6 pieces; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary; 1 teaspoon salt; freshly ground black pepper to taste; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings:

1 whole chicken, cut into 6 pieces
1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
Place the chicken pieces into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Top the chicken with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken should read at least 165F (74C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 579
Total Fat: 48g (62% DV)
Saturated Fat: 10g (52% DV)
Cholesterol: 117mg (39% DV)
Sodium: 791mg (34% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 2g (1% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (0% DV)
Total Sugars: 1g
Protein: 34g (67% DV)
Calcium: 96mg (7% DV)
Iron: 2mg (10% DV)
Potassium: 290mg (6% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Mayo Chicken Recipe

Mayo Chicken is a popular and easy-to-make dish where chicken is coated with a creamy mayo mixture, seasoned with garlic and herbs, and baked until golden and tender. This simple, yet flavorful, recipe has won the hearts of many home cooks due to its convenience and deliciousness. While the dish is not tied to any specific cuisine or country, it has become a household favorite across the United States and around the world.

History and Origin

The exact origin of Mayo Chicken is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in American kitchens in the mid-20th century, during a period when convenience foods like mayonnaise and pre-seasoned sauces were becoming widely popular. Mayonnaise, in particular, was a staple in many households and was often used as a base for various dressings and sauces. The idea of using mayonnaise to coat chicken likely came from a desire to create a moist and flavorful dish with minimal preparation time. Today, this dish continues to be a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, as well as a simple meal for gatherings and family dinners.

Regional Features

Mayo Chicken is most commonly found in American homes, particularly in the Southern United States, where comfort food plays an important role in the culinary culture. The combination of mayonnaise, garlic, and Parmesan is a flavor profile that resonates well with many Southern dishes that incorporate rich, creamy textures. Though variations exist, the core ingredients typically remain the same, with some regions adding their unique touches, such as extra spices, or substituting mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

What Sets Mayo Chicken Apart?

While there are many baked chicken recipes that feature creamy sauces or seasonings, Mayo Chicken stands out due to the use of mayonnaise, which not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist throughout the cooking process. This results in a dish that is both tender and juicy, unlike many baked chicken recipes that can sometimes dry out. The mayonnaise also serves as an excellent base for other ingredients, such as garlic, rosemary, and Parmesan, enhancing the overall taste.

Where is it Usually Served?

Mayo Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served for a variety of occasions. It is commonly served for family dinners, especially on busy nights when time is short but a satisfying meal is needed. This dish is also popular at potlucks, gatherings, and informal events. It pairs wonderfully with side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. Because of its ease of preparation, its also a great choice for meal prep, allowing families to enjoy a tasty dinner throughout the week.

Interesting Facts

Mayonnaise, the key ingredient in Mayo Chicken, was invented in the 18th century in France, though it became widely popular in the U.S. in the early 20th century.
Some variations of Mayo Chicken substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy twist while reducing the calorie content.
The use of Parmesan cheese in Mayo Chicken adds not only flavor but also a crispy texture when baked, making it one of the most loved components of the dish.
Although Mayo Chicken can be baked with bone-in chicken pieces, many prefer to use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs for easier serving and faster cooking.
The dishs simplicity makes it a great option for beginner cooks and those looking to prepare a meal with minimal ingredients.

FAQ about Mayo Chicken Recipe

Store leftover Mayo Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm it in the oven to maintain its texture, or microwave it for a quicker option.

Yes, you can freeze Mayo Chicken. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. For best results, use within 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use sour cream for a tangier taste. Some people also use a mix of cream cheese and sour cream for added richness.

Mayo Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice (especially with the chicken's drippings), or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Yes, bone-in chicken works great in this recipe! However, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

If you're concerned about soggy skin, you can either remove the skin before applying the mayonnaise mixture or broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking to crisp it up.

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or add additional herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to suit your tastes. Just be mindful not to overpower the dish with too many strong flavors.

To make Mayo Chicken low-carb, simply omit any starchy side dishes like rice or potatoes. You can serve it with a low-carb vegetable such as zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a fresh leafy salad.

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses such as Romano, Asiago, or Mozzarella. Keep in mind that these cheeses may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the chicken should no longer be pink in the center.

Comments

BORNONTHEFOURTH

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I made this tonight and it was a hit. I did make one change, I substituted plain Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise as I abhor mayo (yes, my mother wondered where she went wrong ;). The substitution was delicious. I used skinless, boneless chicken breasts and needed only 30 minutes to cook (pound the thicker side to make a more evenly thick piece). I will definitely make this again.

amschu

12/19/2013 11:01:10 AM

This recipe was simple, loved by the kids and is gluten free for my gluten free friends! I added more garlic and I used this with boneless skinless breasts on a bed of rice. (Just add uncooked rice and water in your baking pan). The juices from the garlic, rosemary and mayo were then absorbed in the rice for a delicious side!

Luisrivero

02/03/2013 08:07:09 PM

It was super delicious. I made for my brother and myself and we both loved it, it was juicy and tenderly. I greased the baking dish with butter and then added the chicken. One more thing I only used chicken breast and it was awesome.. Thanks for the recipe.

Kitty

01/30/2023 04:46:48 PM

I leave out the rosemary (too strong) and add more chopped garlic 4-6 cloves, and a little olive oil, under the chicken. Spread the mayo on top of chicken, then use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs on top and then Parmesan cheese. I also cover with aluminum foil to keep it moist and uncover the last few minutes. One of my weekly recipes.

YellowTulips

08/26/2023 09:56:17 PM

This is my go-to recipe for dinner when I'm busy ( or, feeling lazy ). First time I made it exactly according to directions. Now I use bone-in chicken breast halves or a mix of bone-in breasts and thighs and top the freshly-shredded Parmigiano Reggiano with Panko bread crumbs mixed with a bit of EVOO. Result is crispy and juicy chicken.

LadyG

01/10/2024 08:45:29 PM

This recipe is fantastic. I am low carb and this has become a “go-to” for me. Easy and tasty! I used skin on, bone in, chicken thighs, garlic powder equal to 4 cloves because I love garlic , oregano because I don’t like rosemary and 3/4 cup grated Parmesan.

Texastrucker58

05/03/2020 12:04:59 AM

I thought this recipe was awesome. I did make some changes, but I think the recipe would have done well either way. I used boneless, skinless chicken thighs, and reduced the baking time to 35 mins. I used my thermometer to make sure the temps were correct and all was well. I also made some minute rice in a bag and cooked per the instructions on the box. After it was done, I stirred it with some butter and a teaspoon of Greek seasoning and it was amazing. I put down a bed of rice, and layered a piece of chicken on top and poured sauce over all. Thanks for the recipe.

LisaK

04/25/2020 08:51:03 PM

I used low fat Hellman’s mayonnaise and crushed garlic in a jar and it still worked perfectly! Also added parsley flakes. Next time I’m going to add mushrooms. I also cooked 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts at 400 degrees for 22 minutes and it came out perfectly! I lined my dish with foil and there was virtually no mess to clean up. I would definitely make this recipe again. So easy and very little cleanup.

Allrecipes Member

02/05/2023 09:06:16 PM

Used chicken tighs instead of whole chicken, seasoned the tighs with a little salt and black pepper before coating with the seasoned mayo. Moist, juicy, tender, delocious chicken.

Jennifer Wilson

12/29/2021 09:25:03 PM

I read the reviews and knew that this recipe would be way too bland for my crew. My husband, daughter and her BF loved this chicken dish after I modified it with adding tons of fresh herbs from my garden and a few dashes of Cumin. I used chicken breasts cut length wise in have and also pounded them. I added fresh tyme, parsly and rosemary (2 TBS) and 3 garlic cloves, plus the cumin powder. Served it with leftover GB casserole and leftover mashed potatoes!

LankyTray4134

02/14/2024 03:01:11 PM

Have heard of this in the past, so thought I would try it last night on the grandkids (ages 2 and 10). Everyone loved it. Had 3 huge boneless chicken breasts that I cut in half horizontally. Used Italian seasoning instead of the thyme. Came out perfect and everyone loved it. Will do again, and soon.

PerkyBread4468

05/12/2025 08:52:06 PM

Not that great. The skin becomes soggy and I have to remove it because I don't like eating soggy skin. When you do that you take away some of the flavour, so the chicken underneath is quite bland. I used gran padana instead of parmesan but it's not going to make much difference.

Eileen Gindin Spiegel

03/17/2025 01:07:48 AM

Made this tonight and it was delicious. I only had a little rosemary so I added Italian seasoning otherwise followed the directions. The dripping from the chicken tasted great over brown rice. Thanks!

Kaye

09/16/2024 12:48:15 AM

All I had was boneless chick. breasts. Be sure to spread only a light coating of the mayo mixture otherwise it just sits there. Too gloppy for my taste. Otherwise the chicken was moist and had a good flavor. I'll try it again.

Patricia Baker

06/03/2024 04:28:17 PM

Every bite was amazing.

Janet Wright

04/12/2024 03:35:56 AM

Can’t believe it turned out so perfect.

WobblyRoe1071

02/25/2024 09:45:16 PM

Unique with the mayo.

LankyTray4134

02/14/2024 03:01:11 PM

Julie January

12/23/2023 08:58:12 PM

All I taste is mayo. I can't even taste anything else. Do not recommend.

cathybehr

12/16/2023 06:54:49 PM

Usually our baked chicken comes out dry. This time I used chicken with the skin and spread the mayonnaise mix under the skin so the moisture stays on the chicken. My husband and I loved it!

Cook Time: 30 minutes