Name: Melt in Your Mouth Chicken
Prep time: PT-486375H15M12S
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning); Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves tender, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth. The marinade works its magic by infusing the chicken with a blend of garlic, herbs, and a bit of sweetness. As it bakes, the chicken becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, making it hard to resist. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, making it great for any occasion—from family dinners to special celebrations.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the marinade:

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

3. Marinate the chicken:

Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the prepared baking dish. Spread the marinade evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. You can also cover and refrigerate the chicken for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse, but marinating is optional for this recipe if you’re short on time.

4. Bake the chicken:

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (depending on the thickness of the chicken), or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using chicken thighs, they may take a little longer to cook than breasts.

5. Optional broiling:

For a golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to ensure the chicken doesn’t burn, but the top should become lightly browned and bubbly.

6. Serve and enjoy:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender. Serve with your favorite side dishes such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 5-10 minutes (or 30 minutes to 1 hour for marinating)
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (plus optional broiling time)
Total Time: 35-40 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

Add heat: For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the marinade.
Herb variations: Swap the dried thyme for other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables: You can bake some vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes alongside the chicken for a one-pan meal.
Cheesy crust: For extra cheese flavor, sprinkle more grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken before broiling to create a cheesy, crispy crust.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Melt in Your Mouth Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but for the best texture, the oven is preferred.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but they may require a longer cooking time—around 35-40 minutes, depending on the size and thickness. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and marinate it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to infuse even more, resulting in an even more tender chicken.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

You can pan-sear the chicken on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side and then finish it in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even whole-grain mustard, depending on your flavor preference.

Conclusion

Melt in Your Mouth Chicken is a simple, delicious, and foolproof recipe that delivers a juicy, tender chicken every time. The creamy, tangy marinade is what makes this dish stand out, ensuring the chicken stays moist while infusing it with rich flavor. It’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, but elegant enough to serve at a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love!