Hellmann’s Crusted Parmesan Chicken is one of those reliable, go-to recipes that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s quick enough for weeknights, versatile enough for meal prep, and satisfying enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
Chicken is a staple in my house. I am always trying to find new recipes that my family will love. Tow of their favorites are my Garlic Butter Lemon Chicken and my Doritos Crusted Chicken. Try making one of these for your family.
SAVE THIS RECIPE!
Enter your email below and we’ll send this recipe straight to your inbox.
Why this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a Keeper
I love this recipe because it’s super quick and easy. This is one of those recipes you’ll love. Find the full recipe and the nutritional facts in the recipe card. It results in a delicious meal that you’ll make time after time again.
- Effortless Elegance: It looks and tastes impressive, yet requires very little hands-on time and only a few basic ingredients. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight but special enough for company.
- Guaranteed Moist Chicken: The secret weapon is the mayonnaise, which acts as a binder for the crust and, more importantly, locks in moisture, ensuring consistently juicy and tender chicken every time. No more dry chicken breasts!
- Crispy, Flavorful Crust: The combination of Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs creates a golden, savory, and satisfyingly crunchy crust.
- Kid-Friendly: Its mild, cheesy flavor and familiar texture make it a hit with even picky eaters, it only has a touch of garlic.
- Versatile: It pairs well with almost any side dish, from a simple green salad to roasted vegetables or pasta.
- Quick Cook Time: From prep to plate, it’s often ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Does the Hellman’s Crusted Parmesan Chicken Taste like Mayonnaise and what are the Nutritional Facts?
Nope! Since it’s mixed with several other ingredients, the mayo flavor isn’t as strong as you may think. Plus, the mayo makes the chicken super moist. The nutritional facts are listed in te recipe card below.
Pro Tip for Hellmanns Parm Chicken
Skip the pre-shredded stuff! Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the crust a richer, more savory flavor. It also helps the mayo mixture adhere more smoothly to the chicken, creating that golden, crispy finish you’re after.
Get 200 easy and delicious dinner recipes, so you'll never have to worry about what to make for dinner again.
Ingredient Notes for Hellmann’s Crusted Parmesan Chicken
You only need a few easy-to-find ingredients, many of which you probably have in your kitchen already.
Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.
- Chicken: I prefer to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs but you could also use chicken breasts
- Hot Sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce when making this recipe.
- Mayonnaise: I prefer to use full fat mayo, but you can always opt for low fat or light mayo to make this tasty meal.
Variations and Substitutions for Hellmanns Parm Chicken
This simple recipe is so versatile. I like to experiment with flavors by using different ingredients.
- Cheese: Tweak this recipe by using different cheeses. Try mozzarella, asiago or pecorino romano.
- Mozzarella: A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella under the Parmesan-mayo mixture can add a gooey layer.
- Breadcrumbs: The recipe calls for panko breadcrumbs, but there are a few other ways to get the crunch.
- Homemade Breadcrumbs: Toast stale bread and pulse in a food processor.
- Crushed Crackers/Cereal: For a unique texture and flavor (e.g., Ritz crackers, corn flakes).
- Gluten Free Breadcrumbs: Easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs.
- Seasonings: Try adding onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon zest, chipotle, cayenne pepper or Dijon mustard to the mayo mix. You could even add oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes or parsley to the panko instead.
- Protein Alternatives: Instead of a chicken dish, try making it with pork chops. You could even try it with fish filets such as cod or tilapia.
- Toppings (post-baking): Add chopped fresh herbs, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, marinara or bruschetta on top to finish.
Directions to Make Hellmanns Parmesan Chicken
This Hellmann’s chicken recipe comes together in 3 easy to follow steps. This recipe is so good, it’s great for an easy and tasty meal.
Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.
- Preheat Oven Temp and Prep Chicken: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place chicken thighs in an 8×8 baking dish and pour hot sauce over the chicken.
- Make Mayo Mixture: Combine Hellmann’s or Best Foods real mayonnaise with cheese in medium bowl. Add some garlic powder and mix thoroughly.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread mayo mixture over the chicken and top with breadcrumbs. Bake until cooked through and golden.
Prep Ahead Suggestions for Delicious Chicken
When I prepare ingredients ahead of time, it can help save me time and kitchen space when it comes to making everything to have Hellmanns chicken.
- Combine Mayonnaise Mixture: Mix the real mayonnaise, Parmesan, and any additional seasonings in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Prepare Chicken: If pounding chicken breasts, do this ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator.
- Measure Breadcrumbs: Have your breadcrumbs ready to go.
Alternate Cooking Methods for Hellmanns Mayo Chicken Recipes
This chicken bake is best in the oven, but here’s how to switch it up:
- Air Fryer: This method yields an incredibly crispy crust! Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Prepare chicken as directed, coating with the mayo mixture and breadcrumbs. Then, place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry for 12-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stovetop (Pan-Frying – with caution): Prepare chicken as directed. Then, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat with some oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may want to finish in the oven for a few minutes if the crust browns too quickly before the chicken is cooked.
How to Store, Reheat and Use Leftovers
- Storing: Store leftover cooked Hellmann’s Crusted Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust has re-crisped slightly.
- Air Fryer: Place in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until hot and crispy. This is an excellent method for leftovers!
- Microwave: For convenience, microwave individual portions on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through. Be aware that the crust may become less crispy.
- Use Leftovers: Turn leftovers into chicken salad. Chop the cooked chicken and mix with extra mayonnaise, celery, herbs, and seasonings for a quick chicken salad sandwich or wrap.
- Salad Topper: Slice or dice the chicken and add it to a Caesar salad or your favorite mixed green salad.
- Pasta Dish: Cut into strips and toss with pasta, a light cream sauce, or pesto.
- Wraps/Pitas: Shred or dice the chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or pita bread with fresh veggies and a drizzle of dressing.
Questions About Hellmanns Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Chicken may need to cook longer depending on thickness, but it’s done when the biggest piece is 165°F through the middle.
Yes! I like to shred or grate my own fresh cheese.
Expert Tips for Making Hellmanns Parm Chicken
- Pat Chicken Dry: Ensure your chicken breasts are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels before applying the mayo mixture. This helps the coating adhere better and promotes a crispier crust.
- Don’t Skimp on the Mayo/Parm Mixture: Apply a generous, even layer of the mayo-Parmesan mixture for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Even Coating of Breadcrumbs: Press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly onto the mayonnaise mixture to ensure a good, even crust.
- Use a Baking Rack (Optional): For extra crispy chicken all around, place the chicken on an oven-safe wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate underneath.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the chicken pieces enough space on the baking sheet so they can brown evenly. If crowded, they will steam instead of crisp.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C). The high heat is key to achieving that golden, crispy crust quickly.
- Don’t Peak Too Much: Resist opening the oven door too often, especially during the initial baking time, as this drops the oven temperature.
- Serve this Recipe With: Serve with Marinated Italian Green Beans, Cheesy Party Potatoes or Cherry Cheesecake Dessert Wontons.
More Recipes You Might Like
SAVE THIS RECIPE!
Enter your email below and we’ll send this recipe straight to your inbox.
Hellmann’s Crusted Parmesan Chicken
SAVE THIS RECIPE!
Enter your email and we’ll send this recipe to your inbox.
Ingredients
- 4-6 Boneless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup Hot sauce
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Parmesan
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425℉.
- Place the chicken thighs in a 8” x 8” casserole dish and cover with the hot sauce. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Parmesan and garlic powder.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and top with the breadcrumbs.
- Bake until golden and an inserted meat thermometer reads 165℉.
Christina’s Notes
- Pat Chicken: Pat the chicken dry before adding the mayo mixture. This helps to coat it better and gives you a crispier crust.
- Don’t be Shy: Apply a good amount of the mayonnaise parmesan mixture for the most flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Make sure the oven has fully preheated to 425°F for cooking evenly.
For more helpful information about this recipe, such as variations, substitutions and other pro-tips, scroll up on the page.