Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 (5 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves; 4 teaspoons Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Parmesan Chicken Recipe

This simple Parmesan chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that's both crispy and tender. Let's get started!

Ingredients

cup Hellmann's or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise
cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (5 ounces each)
4 teaspoons Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425F (220C).
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet, arranging them evenly spaced.
Step 4: Spoon the mayonnaise mixture over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Italian seasoned bread crumbs over the top of each chicken breast to coat them evenly.
Step 6: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the chicken is cooked through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains:

Calories: 400
Fat: 28g (36% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 5g (25% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 96mg (32% Daily Value)
Sodium: 374mg (16% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 2g (1% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g (63% Daily Value)
Calcium: 73mg (6% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
Potassium: 249mg (5% Daily Value)

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

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Origin and History

The dish "Parmesan Crusted Chicken" is a modern take on the beloved Italian classic, Chicken Parmesan. While Chicken Parmesan is rooted in Italian-American cuisine, the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simpler, less saucy variation. This adaptation arose in the United States as home cooks sought an easier method to prepare the crispy, cheesy goodness associated with the Italian original without the extra effort of frying or heavy sauce.

The simplicity of the recipe, featuring mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, allows for a crisp, golden crust on the chicken, giving a satisfying crunch with every bite. This dish has become a staple in many American kitchens, appreciated for its ease and flavor.

Regional Variations

Though Parmesan Crusted Chicken doesn't belong to a specific regional cuisine within the U.S., it is popular across various regions due to its universal appeal. In some parts of the Midwest and South, people often add additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture to enhance the flavor profile. In coastal areas, variations might include the addition of a citrus glaze or a touch of seafood seasoning to the crust, offering a refreshing twist.

In fact, the dish is sometimes even served with different sides depending on the region, such as mashed potatoes in the South or roasted vegetables in California, making it a versatile dish across the nation.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets Parmesan Crusted Chicken apart from its counterparts like Chicken Parmesan is its simplicity and the way it's prepared. Traditional Chicken Parmesan involves breading and frying the chicken, followed by topping it with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese before baking. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken skips the marinara sauce and cheese layering, focusing instead on the savory combination of mayo, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, giving it a lighter, crisper texture.

In contrast to the traditional Chicken Parmesan's rich and saucy texture, the crusted version is more akin to a baked chicken cutlet, with the Parmesan crust acting as a standalone star without being overshadowed by sauces.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is typically served as a main course in American homes, especially for quick weeknight dinners. Its also a popular choice for meal prepping, as the chicken can be stored and reheated easily. The dish can be served with various sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, it is often a featured option in casual American restaurants and bistros, where its paired with creamy sides like risotto or garlic mashed potatoes.

It is especially favored for its short preparation time, making it a hit at family dinners or even during gatherings, where it can be paired with a selection of appetizers or served as part of a larger buffet.

Interesting Facts

Parmesan cheese, the star ingredient in this recipe, has been a key element in Italian cuisine for centuries. It's known for its bold, nutty flavor and firm texture, which works perfectly for crusting dishes like this one.
Mayonnaise, though often viewed as a modern American condiment, has historical roots dating back to the 18th century in France. It was popularized in the U.S. in the early 20th century, which helped transform it into a staple for dishes like this Parmesan crusted chicken.
The dish is a great source of protein and can be easily customized by adding spices and herbs to the mayo mixture, making it adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Although its origins are rooted in convenience, the dish has become a beloved comfort food in American homes, offering a quick and satisfying meal option for busy families.

FAQ about Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in an oven to maintain the crispy crust.

Yes, you can freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken. After baking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or Asiago. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise and Parmesan mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using.

Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier, but the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the pieces.

To reheat the Parmesan Crusted Chicken and keep the crust crispy, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in an air fryer for about 5 minutes.

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute for the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs in this recipe. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, or a fresh salad. Cheesy potatoes and pasta also make excellent accompaniments.

Yes, you can cook Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for about 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

Comments

Heather Collins

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

So easy, I barely had to think.

tmmiller26

05/28/2024 11:39:23 PM

Made this with 7 chicken breasts. Doubled the ingredients. Added 1/2 teaspoon of garlic and dijon mustard to the mayo/cheese, and used panko bread crumbs instead of Italian. Baked for 30 minutes instead of 20, and it came out great! Served with cheesy mashed potatoes and garlic green beans.

RowdyTea6430

03/13/2024 08:16:47 PM

It was delicious and easy. The only change I made was to brush the mayo in both sides of the breast with a pastry brush and dredge the breast in the cheese/bread crumb mix, coating both sides. Fabulous !

pamjlee

11/07/2011 03:02:25 AM

Although I made some changes, I am rating this more for myself. I used miracle whip, personal preference. Also mixed in some garlic powder, pepper and dried basil. I then rolled the chicken pieces in the parmesan cheese. I left out the bread crumbs altogether. I had sliced the chicken breast into 4 pieces to have more coating so the cooking time was good for me. Very nice flavor, quick and easy. A keeper.

RedChip8401

04/25/2023 10:13:45 PM

My wife loves it....I pounded the chicken fillets. I did salt and pepper the chicken before coating with the mayo and cheese mixture, and Italian bread crumbs... I placed them on a grate on a cookie sheet...They were very good,

naples34102

01/01/2013 12:01:40 PM

I’m generally very impressed with Hellmann’s recipes, but this time not so much. So I changed it up big time I guess. I salted and peppered the chicken breasts, then spread them with mayonnaise to which I added fresh minced garlic. I mixed panko bread crumbs and the grated Parmesan in a ratio of 2:1, and added fresh oregano, parsley and rosemary, topping each of the chicken breasts as the recipe directs. I gave them a drizzle of olive oil before popping them in the oven. I much preferred that method and those fresh ingredients rather than mixing the cheese in with the mayonnaise and using Italian seasoned bread crumbs which I don’t think I would have cared for. I sliced the chicken and served it over “Spinach Ranch Salad,” also from this site, and “Broccoli Cheese Soup V.”

Danette Lykins

11/13/2011 06:19:17 PM

Wonderful! I added more seasonings to the Mayo mix: seasoning salt, garlic powder, dash of cayenne and some lemon pepper.. coated chicken in mayo mix, and tossed them in a ziplock with bread crumbs. Sprinkle some paprika on top for a fancier look.. baked on rack over cookie sheet so the bottoms didn't get soggy- there are none for leftovers! will be making this again.

cJoY

01/08/2015 08:32:52 PM

I made this recipe & it turned out GREAT, it was tasty, easy & fast to make. Even though the recipe doesn't call for it, be sure to season your raw chicken breast before you add the mayo mixture & bread crumbs or it may taste a bit bland. I seasoned my chicken w/Lawry's, garlic powder, black pepper & a little thyme. I also cooked it for 30 mins, instead of 20 as the recipe states, doing that made the crust crispier & less mushy.

VividSoy2109

07/03/2023 04:24:30 AM

Great recipe that calls for only 4 ingredients! I’ve made this recipe twice. The first time I used plain breadcrumbs and added Italian Seasoning. The second time I used Panko and added Italian Seasoning. Rave reviews on both, but I think Panko makes a crispier crust. D-lish … Thanks!

Elaine

08/16/2017 07:32:32 PM

There is no better way to prepare chicken. I suggest pounding the pieces to get them even and adding about a tsp of mustard to the mayo---or a squeeze of lemon. Absolutely salt & pepper and spice the chicken on both sides. A little cooking spray on top helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely.

Daniel Tate

05/03/2018 05:46:05 PM

it is good but i suggest cutting the chicken in small sizes then full breast size like strips or something still good though i also made change on it i used garlic powder,onion power and weber kick 'n' chicken seasoning just add all the seasoning to the mayo and cheese it's super good

Captain

09/19/2025 09:42:09 PM

Made this for my 5yo niece a while ago. She scrapped off the cheese crust and said she didn't like it. Kids these days, man...

Sophia

07/22/2025 03:02:28 AM

Easily one of our favorite go to dinner especially for my teenage son.

Memawolf

06/18/2025 11:36:16 PM

I added garlic, cilantro and a bit of lawrys’ seasoning and herbs to the Parmesan and mayo “paste”. It was delicious!

Matthew Ramirez

05/01/2025 03:56:09 AM

Even my roommate asked for seconds.

MerryClam9780

02/19/2025 06:48:32 PM

Easy to make and tastes so good!

ChirpyJelly4854

02/19/2025 01:09:34 AM

So easy and delicious.

Christina

02/12/2025 07:16:05 PM

It was good but not as crunchy as I’d like

Robertg

02/01/2025 10:13:07 PM

Made it once to try something new, family loves it so much we have it every 3-4 weeks!

PuffySquid1994

01/29/2025 07:31:05 PM

I did make the following changes. We love garlic so I added a teaspoon of minced garlic in olive oil to the mayo/ cheese mix. Also did not have seasoned bread crumbs in the house because I prefer to season my own based on what I am making. So mixed plain breadcrumbs with one teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoons black pepper, 1 teaspoon roasted garlic granules, (of course), 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon parsley and 1 teaspoon paprika. It was great. Definitely made it to the dinner rotation.

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