Last update images today Mayo Magic: Best Baked Chicken Recipe
Mayo Magic: Best Baked Chicken Recipe!
This week, the internet is buzzing about one thing: the incredibly simple and unbelievably delicious baked chicken with mayo recipe. Forget dry, bland chicken dinners! This method guarantees juicy, flavorful results every single time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Why Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe is Trending
Why is baked chicken with mayo recipe suddenly everywhere? The answer is simple: it works! People are tired of complicated recipes with long ingredient lists. This recipe champions simplicity, using pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality dish. Its versatility also contributes to its popularity - you can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, and the impressive flavor profile makes it suitable for weekend gatherings. Word of mouth, fueled by stunning visuals on social media, has turned this recipe into a viral sensation.
The Secret Ingredient: Mayo in Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe
Yes, you read that right - mayonnaise! While it might seem unconventional, mayonnaise is the magic ingredient that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience in this baked chicken with mayo recipe. But why mayo?
- Moisture Retention: Mayonnaise acts as a barrier, preventing the chicken from drying out during baking. This is crucial for achieving that juicy, tender texture everyone craves.
- Flavor Infusion: Mayonnaise is a fat-based ingredient that carries flavors beautifully. When combined with herbs and spices, it creates a flavorful crust that permeates the chicken.
- Browning Power: The oils in mayonnaise contribute to a beautiful, golden-brown crust, making the chicken visually appealing.
The Ultimate Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe: Step-by-Step
Ready to experience the magic of baked chicken with mayo recipe for yourself? Here's a simple and foolproof recipe that will deliver delicious results every time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or bone-in, skin-on pieces)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light, your choice)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a nice tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375?F (190?C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the mayonnaise adhere better and promotes browning.
- Mix the Mayo Mixture: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. This is the secret weapon for the baked chicken with mayo recipe.
- Coat the Chicken: Generously coat each chicken breast with the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring that all sides are covered. For bone-in, skin-on pieces, try to get some of the mixture under the skin for extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165?F (74?C). Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and whether they are boneless or bone-in.
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs, like parsley, for freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the baking sheet can cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. Make sure the pieces are spaced out evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend for ensuring that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking it.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different herbs, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Lemon pepper, Italian seasoning, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese are all great additions to the baked chicken with mayo recipe.
- Adjust Baking Time: Baking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and your oven. Start checking the internal temperature after 20 minutes and adjust accordingly.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe
This baked chicken with mayo recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are all excellent choices.
- Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potato Mash: A classic pairing that's always a crowd-pleaser.
- Rice or Quinoa: A healthy and filling option.
- Salad: A simple green salad or a more elaborate pasta salad.
- Garlic Bread: For soaking up all those delicious pan juices!
Who is Ina Garten?
While there isn't a direct connection between a particular celebrity championing this specific baked chicken with mayo recipe and its virality this week, the recipe resonates with Ina Garten's philosophy of simple, flavorful cooking. Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a renowned American author and television personality known for her approachable and elegant cooking style. Her recipes emphasize fresh, high-quality ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, making her a beloved figure in the culinary world. While she may not have invented the baked chicken with mayo recipe, her influence on home cooking surely contributes to people being more open to such a simple technique for preparing chicken.
Ina Garten Biography
Ina Rosenberg Garten (born February 2, 1948) is an American author and television personality. She is best known for her cookbooks and her Food Network program, Barefoot Contessa. Garten was formerly a staff member in the White House Office of Management and Budget. Largely self-taught, she owns a specialty food store in East Hampton, New York. Her television program and cookbooks have gained a wide audience, and she is known for her easy-to-follow recipes and emphasis on fresh ingredients.
Conclusion: The Simple Genius of Baked Chicken with Mayo Recipe
The baked chicken with mayo recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, ditch the dry, bland chicken and embrace the mayo magic! This trending recipe is a game-changer, and you won't be disappointed.
Keywords: baked chicken with mayo recipe, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken breast, mayo chicken, trending recipe, chicken dinner, weeknight dinner, simple chicken recipe, Ina Garten, Barefoot Contessa
Summary Question and Answer:
Q: What makes baked chicken with mayo recipe so popular? A: It's easy, uses simple ingredients, guarantees juicy results, and is customizable with various herbs and spices.
Q: Why use mayonnaise on baked chicken with mayo recipe? A: Mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist, infuses flavor, and helps create a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Q: What temperature should I bake chicken coated in mayo? A: Bake at 375?F (190?C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165?F (74?C).