This Creamy Baked Chicken is juicy and tender with a layer of cream cheese, mayo, and Parmesan that keeps it moist, finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Ready in just 30 minutes!
2poundsboneless skinless chicken breast(4 medium sized breasts, about 1/2 pound each)
Salt and pepper
4ouncescream cheeseroom temperature
1/2cupmayonnaise
1/2cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2teaspoongarlic powder
1/2teaspoonpaprika
1/2cuppanko breadcrumbs
1teaspoondried parsley
Garnish: fresh minced parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Gently pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap so the pieces are even in thickness.
Pat chicken dry, then arrange in the pan. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Mix cream cheese, mayo, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika in a medium bowl until smooth. Spread evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Mix panko breadcrumbs and dried parsley together, then sprinkle over the cream cheese layer. Press down gently to help them stick.
Bake uncovered for 18-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Time will vary based on the size of your chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh minced parsley.
Notes
Room temperature cream cheese is key. Cold cream cheese will be lumpy and hard to spread. Set it out 30 minutes before you start.
Pound for even cooking. Taking a minute to even out the thickness prevents dry edges and undercooked centers.
Go light on the salt. The Parmesan and mayo in the creamy layer already add saltiness.
Use panko for best crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work but won't be as crispy.
Check early. Start checking the chicken at 15-18 minutes. Smaller breasts cook faster.
Reheat in the air fryer. This is the best way to bring back the crispy breadcrumb texture on leftovers.
Servings: Makes 6 portions or 4 if you're really hungry.