Ingredients:

  • 4 (6-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire cooling rack.
  2. Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to a uniform 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Pat each breast completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together light mayonnaise, finely grated parmesan, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then slather the mayo mixture over the top and sides of each breast.
  4. In a separate shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, shredded parmesan, chopped parsley, and melted butter. Press the crumb mixture firmly onto the mayonnaise-coated chicken breasts.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).