Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts baked in a creamy Parmesan and buttermilk sauce, infused with savory garlic, paprika, and tarragon. Perfectly baked for a juicy and flavorful main dish that is simple yet indulgent.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp dried tarragon
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, dried tarragon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the chicken breasts evenly in the greased baking dish, making sure they lay flat and have enough space between them for even cooking.
- Coat the chicken: Generously smother each chicken breast with the prepared Parmesan sauce, making sure all surfaces are well covered for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken breasts for 40 to 45 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, tender, and the sauce slightly browned on top.
- Check doneness: Verify the chicken is fully cooked by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving for juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh tarragon if available, use about 1 tsp chopped fresh tarragon.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- If buttermilk is unavailable, use plain yogurt thinned with a splash of milk as a substitute.
- Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.