If you’re searching for a chicken dinner that’s crisp, juicy, and simple to prepare, you’ll find a winner in Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish brings together tender chicken breasts with a creamy parmesan topping and golden-brown crust. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or already a skilled cook, this recipe stands out for its reliability and bold flavor.
Perfect for weeknight family dinners or when guests drop by, Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken balances convenience with memorable taste. Every ingredient pulls its weight—there are no fillers here, just straightforward comfort food with a crisp twist.
Ingredients
You only need four main ingredients. Each one plays a key role, and together, they deliver flavor in every bite.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and trimmed. For best results, choose pieces of similar thickness.
- Mayonnaise: Hellmann’s is the traditional favorite, but another rich, creamy mayo will do.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated provides a deeper, nuttier flavor and helps create that signature crust.
- Seasoned bread crumbs: These add texture and a hint of spice. You can make your own or choose pre-seasoned options from the store.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 4 pieces, about 6 oz each |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup, or enough to evenly coat |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup, freshly grated |
| Seasoned Bread Crumbs | 1/4 cup, adjust for extra crunch |
How to Make Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Use a sharp knife to slice each chicken breast in half horizontally for even cooking. If pieces are thicker in spots, use a meat mallet to gently pound to a uniform thickness, about 1/2 inch.
Step 2: Assemble the Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and grated parmesan. This creamy spread not only adds flavor but also locks in the chicken’s juices as it bakes.
If you love a little extra flavor, add a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or smoked paprika to the mix. Herbs like dried basil or Italian seasoning blend in well, too.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread the mayo-parmesan mixture over each piece, covering the top evenly.
Sprinkle seasoned bread crumbs over the mayo-coated chicken. For a thicker crust, press gently so the crumbs adhere.
Step 4: Bake
Place the tray in your preheated oven. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and an instant-read thermometer measures 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of a piece.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This lets the juices settle, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Tips for Best Results
- Uniform Pieces: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking and helps every piece finish at the same time.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own for a meltier result and better flavor; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to personalize the topping with your favorite spice blend. Paprika, cayenne, or dried oregano all work well.
- Extra Crisp: For a crunchy crust, spray the breadcrumb topping lightly with olive oil just before baking.
- Alternative Proteins: Try this method on boneless chicken thighs, salmon fillets, or even thin pork chops for variety.
Air Fryer Method
Cooking in an air fryer gives an even crisper crust. Place coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Set the temperature to 400°F (204°C).
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway for even browning.
- Check for doneness at the thickest point.
Use this approach when you want a quicker cooking time and less heat in the kitchen.
What to Serve with Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This chicken pairs well with many sides. Choose one or mix several for your ideal meal.
Vegetable Sides:
– Roasted broccoli or asparagus. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder before roasting.
– Mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness.
Hearty Sides:
– Mashed or roasted potatoes. Their creamy texture complements the chicken’s crunch.
– Buttered egg noodles or your favorite pasta topped with a light tomato sauce.
Low-Carb Options:
– Cauliflower rice sautéed with garlic.
– Zucchini noodles with fresh basil.
Sandwiches:
Slice leftover chicken for sandwiches. Layer onto a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and extra parmesan.
Make Ahead and Storing
Parmesan crusted chicken keeps well for future meals and meal prep.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the chicken on a sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or until hot. Air fryers also re-crisp the crust nicely.
Variations
Switch things up with small ingredient changes. Try swapping parmesan for a blend of Romano and mozzarella. Add a spicy note with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce into the mayo mixture.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or finely crushed pork rinds. If you don’t have bread crumbs, crushed cornflakes or panko offer a different—but equally crunchy—texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use light mayo?
Yes, reduced-fat mayonnaise works, though the crust may brown a bit less. The chicken will still turn out tender.
What if I don’t have seasoned bread crumbs?
Mix plain bread crumbs with a little salt, pepper, dried garlic, and herbs to make your own.
Can I freeze baked parmesan crusted chicken?
Absolutely. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing. Reheat straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Kids and adults alike usually love the mild chicken and crunchy topping. The recipe avoids strong flavors unless you decide to add them.
Summary
Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken uses a handful of ingredients to create a tender and crispy main dish. The creamy mayo and sharp parmesan fuse into a golden crust, sealing in moisture and delivering taste in every forkful. With simple preparation, family-friendly flavors, and flexibility for add-ins or substitutions, this dish easily finds a place in regular meal rotations.
Whether you bake in the oven or use an air fryer, you get reliable results without fussing over tricky techniques. Serve with vegetables, potatoes, or bread for a comforting, homestyle dinner. Store leftovers for quick sandwiches or salads later in the week, making this an efficient as well as delicious meal.
Hellmann’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken
For a dinner that’s a sure winner, try this Hellmann’s parmesan-crusted chicken. With just four ingredients, this easy recipe is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 4 teaspoons Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and parmesan.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spread the mayo-cheese mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with seasoned bread crumbs.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness. Cooked chicken has an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve and enjoy!