Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Packed with delicious flavors
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Mayonnaise
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy texture)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
- If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the chicken for added crispiness.
- Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on top.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture for a kick.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the sauce.
- Crunchy Coating: Use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for an herby flavor.
- Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How can I make Yum Yum Chicken extra crispy?
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchier texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.
What sides go well with Yum Yum Chicken?
It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken with the sauce and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of regular cheese.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Try Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or Cajun spice for variety.
What can I do if my chicken turns out dry?
Avoid overcooking, and consider using chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
This recipe works best with raw chicken, but you can mix the sauce with shredded cooked chicken for a different twist.
Conclusion
Yum Yum Chicken is a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this dish delivers great taste with minimal effort. Try it with your favorite sides, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy a satisfying homemade meal.
Yum Yum Chicken Recipe
Yum Yum Chicken is a crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish coated in a rich, creamy Yum Yum sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. Serve it over rice, noodles, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Frying (or Baking/Air-frying)
- Cuisine: American, Japanese-inspired
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Yum Yum Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked (about 4-5 minutes per side). Drain on a paper towel.
- Make the Yum Yum Sauce: In a small bowl, mix all sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.
- Serve: Drizzle the Yum Yum sauce over the crispy chicken or serve on the side for dipping. Enjoy with rice, noodles, or veggies!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- You can air-fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.