Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe (with Video)

Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe: Mayonnaise chicken is one of those recipes that makes you go, “Where has this been all my life?” It’s deliciously creamy, loaded with flavor, and shockingly simple to prepare. If you’re craving something that feels indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s the ultimate comfort food that hits the sweet spot between convenience and culinary delight.

With only a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen—this dish transforms humble chicken breasts or thighs into a rich, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile. You can bake it, grill it, or even toss it in the air fryer. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, mayonnaise chicken checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it—chicken dinners can get boring fast. But not this one. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with mayonnaise chicken:

• It’s foolproof: Even if you’re a kitchen newbie, this recipe is hard to mess up.
• Tons of flavor: The mayonnaise locks in moisture and acts as a flavor sponge for spices.
• Ridiculously juicy: Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken.
• Quick prep time: Only 10 minutes of hands-on prep.
• Versatile: You can customize the spices, use different cuts of chicken, or cook it multiple ways.

What really makes this recipe special is the way mayonnaise transforms during baking. It doesn’t taste like straight mayo—instead, it turns into a lightly crisp, golden coating that hugs the chicken like a warm blanket. Every bite is tender, creamy, and just slightly tangy. Trust me, this is going to be a weeknight favorite in your rotation.

Health Benefits of Baked Mayonnaise Chicken

Okay, let’s talk health. Yes, mayonnaise has a reputation for being a little indulgent, but used wisely, it’s not as sinful as you might think. In fact, baking with mayonnaise actually helps keep the chicken moist without having to drown it in oil or butter.

• Protein-packed: Chicken is a lean source of protein which helps in muscle building and keeps you full longer.
• Good fats: Mayo contains healthy fats, especially if you opt for olive oil-based or avocado oil mayonnaise.
• No frying involved: Baking means fewer calories compared to deep-fried alternatives.
• Low-carb: Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

So, while it’s not a “salad,” mayonnaise chicken can definitely be part of a balanced meal, especially when paired with veggies or whole grains.

Types of Mayonnaise You Can Use

When it comes to mayo, not all are created equal. Your choice here can totally change the flavor and texture of the dish. Let’s break down the options.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Mayo

If you’ve got a few extra minutes, homemade mayo is a game-changer. It’s fresh, eggy, and you can control what goes in it—no preservatives or hidden sugar. But store-bought is totally fine too, especially if you pick a good quality brand like Hellmann’s, Duke’s, or Kewpie (for an umami kick).

Low-Fat or Flavored Mayo Options

Trying to cut back on calories? There are some excellent low-fat or Greek yogurt-based mayo alternatives out there. You can even find flavored versions like chipotle, garlic aioli, or lemon herb that add another layer of yum.

Some fun flavor ideas:

• Sriracha mayo – for a spicy kick
• Truffle mayo – fancy dinner, anyone?
• Garlic herb mayo – savory and earthy

List of Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty—what you’ll need to whip up this creamy chicken magic.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s your shopping list:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (use your preferred brand/type)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (fresh is best)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the dish or drizzling)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional but pretty)

Optional Add-ons and Substitutions

Want to jazz it up a little? Try these:

• Bread crumbs – for a crunchy top layer
• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – more cheesy goodness
• Chili flakes – to spice things up
• Lemon zest – adds brightness
• Dijon mustard – gives a tangy depth

You can also substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayo if you’re going for a lighter version.

Equipment You’ll Need

No fancy gear required. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk or spatula
• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Meat thermometer (optional but helps with accuracy)
• Oven mitts (because safety first)

Preparation Tips Before You Begin

Before diving in, here are a few prep tips to make sure your chicken turns out like a pro:

• Pat your chicken dry. Extra moisture prevents the mayo from sticking.
• Bring chicken to room temperature. It helps in even cooking.
• Preheat your oven. Cold oven = longer cook time and uneven texture.
• Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well.

Also, go ahead and spray or oil your baking dish now so you’re not scrambling later with greasy hands.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mayonnaise Chicken

Let’s get into the main event—cooking your dreamy, creamy chicken. Follow these steps and you’ll be plating up perfection in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with oil or line it with foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this ensures the marinade sticks better and gives you a juicier finish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other preferred spices. Rub the seasoning in thoroughly so the flavors soak deep into the meat. Let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes.

Step 3: Coat with Mayo Mixture

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, a little mustard, grated cheese, and herbs. Spread this mixture generously over each piece of chicken. The mayo acts as both a marinade and a moisture-locking layer.

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in your prepared dish. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they cook evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden, juicy, and fully cooked. Let it rest briefly, then serve warm and enjoy!

How to Tell When the Chicken is Done

Now, this part is super important. Overcooked chicken is dry and chewy. Undercooked? That’s a food safety nightmare. So how do you make sure your mayonnaise chicken is perfectly cooked?

Here’s what to look for:

• Color: The chicken should be white all the way through, with no pink in the center.
• Juices: When you slice into the thickest part, the juices should run clear—not pink or cloudy.
• Texture: The chicken should be tender and moist, not rubbery.
• Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Don’t guess—thermometers are your best kitchen buddy.

Pro tip? Let your chicken rest for 5–7 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

You’ve got this creamy, juicy chicken fresh out of the oven. But what now? Let’s talk about what to serve it with and how to turn it into a complete, well-rounded meal.

What to Serve with Mayonnaise Chicken

Balance is key. Since the chicken is rich and creamy, go with lighter, fresh sides:

• Steamed or roasted veggies – broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or carrots
• A crisp side salad – tossed greens with vinaigrette to cut the richness
• Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes – for classic comfort food vibes
• Garlic rice or buttered noodles – easy carbs that pair beautifully
• Quinoa or couscous – for a lighter, protein-packed grain option

Don’t forget the garnish—a sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or green onions adds color and a pop of freshness.

Meal Ideas for Leftovers

Leftovers? Lucky you! Mayonnaise chicken reheats well and can be repurposed in a bunch of creative ways.

• Chicken sandwiches: Slice it up and add to a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato.
• Wraps: Roll it into a tortilla with fresh greens and a drizzle of ranch or tzatziki.
• Pasta topper: Chop and toss it into creamy Alfredo pasta.
• Chicken salad: Dice it cold and mix with celery, grapes, and a little extra mayo or yogurt.
• Grain bowl: Serve it over rice or quinoa with roasted veggies and tahini sauce.

Variations of the Recipe

Want to spice things up or try something new? There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry.

Spicy Mayonnaise Chicken

If you like heat, add the following to the mayo mixture:

• 1 tsp sriracha or hot sauce
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• Chili flakes, to taste

You’ll get a fiery kick without overwhelming the creamy texture.

Grilled Version

Yep, you can take this chicken to the grill!

1. Marinate the chicken as usual.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush extra mayo mix on top while grilling for that golden coating.

This method gives the chicken a smoky flavor with a crispy charred crust.

Air Fryer Method

Short on time? The air fryer has your back.

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer.
• Air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Check doneness with a thermometer.

This method gives you a crispy outside with a juicy center, fast.

Tips to Make It Juicy and Flavorful

Here’s the deal—this recipe is simple, but the little things can make a big difference.

• Don’t skip seasoning the chicken before mayo. Salt and pepper directly on the meat add depth.
• Use full-fat mayo for the best texture and flavor.
• Let it marinate longer if you have time—up to 24 hours is fine!
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Airflow helps with browning and even cooking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and adds a nuttier flavor.

Also, feel free to mix and match your favorite herbs—basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary can all be added to the mayo for a flavor twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go sideways. Here are the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them:

• Using too much mayo: A thick coating is good, but drowning the chicken can make it soggy.
• Baking in a cold oven: Always preheat fully for even cooking.
• Skipping the rest time: Cutting too soon = juices all over your cutting board, not in your chicken.
• Using wet chicken: Excess moisture makes it hard for the mayo to stick.
• Cooking at too high a temp: You’ll burn the coating before the inside cooks. Stick to 375°F for a golden crust.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Let’s keep that deliciousness going even after dinner.

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–6 minutes.
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes on medium power (but you’ll lose some crispness).

Sprinkle a few drops of water over the chicken before reheating to prevent drying out.

FAQs about Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding the mayo coating. Frozen chicken releases too much water and can ruin the texture.

2. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free mayo and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. The results are still creamy and delicious.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and mayo coating up to a day in advance. Store covered in the fridge and bake when ready.

4. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast for a crunchy topping.

5. Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless?

Yes! Just adjust the cooking time—bone-in pieces will take around 10–15 minutes longer to cook through.

Conclusion

There you have it—your complete, foolproof guide to making the most tender, flavorful, and irresistible Mayonnaise Chicken at home. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or a total beginner, this recipe delivers big-time with minimal effort. With its juicy interior and golden, cheesy crust, it’s the kind of dish that wins over picky eaters, dinner guests, and tired weeknight cooks alike.

Play around with variations, spice it up, serve it with your favorite sides, and most importantly—enjoy every bite. Once you try this once, it’s bound to earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.