This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful chicken dish that's quick to make and perfect for a weeknight meal. The creamy mayonnaise and sharp parmesan cheese create a rich sauce that coats the chicken beautifully, resulting in a tender and juicy experience. This dish is versatile enough to be served on its own, over pasta, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for best flavor and creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and basil. Mix until well combined and creamy.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Add the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the Parmesan mayonnaise sauce over the chicken breasts. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can gently spoon the sauce over the chicken occasionally to ensure even coating.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Yes! While Parmesan cheese provides a classic sharp flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on your cheese choice.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety. Adding more vegetables to the dish, such as roasted broccoli or asparagus, will also increase the nutritional value.
Can I bake this chicken instead of pan-frying it?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, pour the Parmesan mayonnaise sauce over them, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
What can I serve this chicken with?
This creamy Parmesan chicken is incredibly versatile. It's delicious served on its own, over pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or even mashed potatoes), with rice, or alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A simple side salad would also complement this dish perfectly.
How long can I store leftover chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
This creamy Parmesan chicken recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sharp Parmesan, and tender chicken is irresistible. Enjoy!
