If you’re tired of dry, flavorless chicken breasts, this recipe is about to change your weeknight dinner game. Using just a few pantry staples—most importantly, mayonnaise—you can create juicy, tender, and flavor-packed chicken without any complicated steps.
Mayonnaise might sound unusual, but it’s a secret weapon for locking in moisture and creating a golden, lightly crisped exterior. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something simple, comforting, and satisfying with minimal prep.
Whether you’re feeding your family or just need a no-fuss protein to pair with veggies or salad, this mayo chicken breast recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s get into how to make it right.
Table of Contents
Why Use Mayonnaise on Chicken?
Okay, I’ll be honest—when I first heard about slathering mayonnaise on chicken, I was skeptical too. It sounded a little strange. But the first time I tried it? Total game changer.
Mayonnaise works a little magic in the oven. It doesn’t just sit there; it melts into the chicken, locking in moisture while creating a flavorful crust that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. No dry, rubbery chicken here—just tender, golden goodness in every bite.
Plus, you don’t need a long list of ingredients or a fancy marinade. The mayo does all the heavy lifting, especially when you mix in a few seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling bold.
If you’ve never tried it, this is your sign. Once you do, you’ll probably never bake plain chicken breasts the same way again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long shopping list to make this mayo chicken breast recipe—just a handful of everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Basic Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless; aim for even-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Mayonnaise – The star of the show! Use full-fat mayo for the best texture and flavor.
- Garlic powder – Adds depth and a subtle kick.
- Onion powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
- Paprika – For a touch of warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper – To bring it all together.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Breadcrumbs – For a crunchy topping if you like texture.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds a cheesy, salty finish.
- Fresh herbs – Parsley, thyme, or rosemary for garnish or extra aroma.
- Lemon wedges – A squeeze on top after baking adds brightness.
You can keep it classic or customize based on what’s in your pantry. Either way, you’re just a few steps away from seriously delicious chicken.
How to Make Mayo Chicken Breast (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is all about keeping it simple without sacrificing flavor. Here’s exactly how to make juicy, oven-baked mayo chicken breasts in under 30 minutes.
Step 1 – Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray.
Step 2 – Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the mayo mixture stick better. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3 – Make the Mayo Mixture
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If you’re adding breadcrumbs or Parmesan, stir them in now for extra crunch.
Step 4 – Coat the Chicken
Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts. You can use the back of a spoon or a silicone brush. Make sure the layer is thick enough to form a crust when baked.
Step 5 – Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken in your prepared dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the tops are golden and bubbly.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving to keep all that juicy flavor inside.
Mayo Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Spread the mayo mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast. Add optional breadcrumbs or Parmesan on top if using.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and tops are golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Video
Notes
- Even Thickness = Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are very thick or uneven, slice them in half or pound them to even thickness for better baking results.
- Low-Carb Tip: Skip the breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a keto-friendly version. The mayo alone still gives a golden finish.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce to the mayo mix for a fresh or spicy twist.
- Don’t Overbake: Start checking doneness at the 20-minute mark—overcooked chicken dries out fast.
- Make It a Meal: Double the recipe and serve over rice bowls, salads, or in wraps for quick leftovers all week.
Mayo Chicken Variations
One of the best things about this mayo chicken breast recipe is how easily you can tweak it to match your cravings or dietary needs. Here are a few fun and tasty ways to switch it up:
1. Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping
Add panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to the mayo mixture or sprinkle on top before baking. It gives your chicken a beautiful, golden crust with an extra crunch.
2. Spicy Sriracha Mayo Chicken
Mix a spoonful of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the mayo. It adds a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the juicy texture.
3. Parmesan Herb Crusted
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. This version feels extra savory and a little more gourmet without any extra effort.
4. Keto-Friendly Option
Skip the breadcrumbs entirely and add a layer of shredded cheese on top instead. You’ll still get that crispy finish while keeping it low-carb.
5. Air Fryer Version
Prefer a quicker cook time? Pop the coated chicken into the air fryer at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. It comes out crispy and just as juicy.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Breasts
Even a simple recipe like this one can be taken to the next level with a few smart tricks. Follow these tips to make sure your mayo chicken breasts come out perfectly juicy and flavorful every time:
1. Use Even-Sized Chicken Breasts
If your chicken pieces are different sizes, some will cook faster than others. Pound them gently to even thickness or slice larger breasts in half for more consistent results.
2. Don’t Skip the Rest Time
Once the chicken comes out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in instead of running out when you cut it.
3. Line Your Baking Dish
Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. It also helps the bottom crisp up slightly without overcooking.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
Don’t guess. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. Don’t Overdo the Mayo
While mayo helps lock in moisture, using too much can make the chicken soggy. A thin but complete coating is ideal.
What to Serve with Mayo Chicken
This mayo chicken breast recipe is super versatile, so pairing it with sides is easy. Whether you’re going for a cozy comfort meal or a light dinner, here are some ideas to round out your plate:
1. Roasted Vegetables
Think carrots, broccoli, brussels sprouts, or zucchini. Toss them in olive oil and seasoning, then roast alongside the chicken for a no-fuss, oven-only meal.
2. Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash
Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower mash works beautifully too.
3. Rice or Quinoa
Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or herbed quinoa to soak up the savory juices.
4. Fresh Salad
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the mayo coating. Try arugula, romaine, or spinach with lemon dressing.
5. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or just adding a cozy, carb-friendly element to the plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Made extra? No problem! This mayo chicken breast recipe stores and reheats surprisingly well when done right. Here’s how to keep it juicy and delicious for later:
How to Store Leftovers
Let the chicken cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
How to Reheat Without Drying Out
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the chicken loosely with foil, and heat for about 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a plate with a damp paper towel on top. Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
- Air Fryer: Great for restoring crispiness! Heat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Store fully cooked and cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tip: If you plan to freeze, skip breadcrumbs—they can get a bit soggy after defrosting.
Mayo Chicken FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
How do you make chicken with mayonnaise?
To make chicken with mayonnaise, simply coat seasoned chicken breasts with a mixture of mayo and spices, then bake at 400°F until golden and cooked through. The mayo locks in moisture and helps create a lightly crispy crust.
Why do people put mayonnaise on chicken before cooking?
Mayonnaise helps keep chicken incredibly juicy during cooking. It acts as a fat barrier that seals in moisture while adding flavor and helping spices stick. It also browns beautifully in the oven for a golden finish.
Can I use mayonnaise to marinate chicken?
Yes, you can use mayonnaise as a marinade. Letting the chicken sit in a mayo-based mixture for a few hours (or overnight) adds extra moisture and flavor. It’s especially great for baking or air frying.
Can you use mayonnaise to fry chicken?
Mayonnaise isn’t ideal for deep frying, but it works well in pan-frying or air frying when used as a coating base. It helps breadcrumbs or cheese stick, creating a crispy outer layer without needing heavy oil.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried baking chicken with mayonnaise, this simple recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s juicy, flavorful, and requires hardly any effort—just a few pantry ingredients and your oven.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this mayo chicken breast recipe delivers satisfying results every single time. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation.
Want more no-fuss meal ideas like this one? Check out the rest of our Chicken Recipes for easy, delicious inspiration.
Looking for something light and detox-friendly to pair with this comforting chicken dish?
Try one of these popular morning wellness drinks:
- 👉 Pink Salt Weight Loss Recipe — a natural ACV drink to help reduce bloating and boost metabolism
- 👉 Pink Salt Trick Recipe — lemon-based mineral water to support digestion and hydration
- 👉 Brazilian Mounjaro Recipe — a clean, energizing drink for fat-burning support
