Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, depending on your preference)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/4 tsp garlic powder
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1/4 tsp onion powder
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking chicken, ensuring it stays juicy while achieving a nice golden crust.
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The breadcrumbs add a crispy texture, while the Parmesan adds richness and flavor.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over each chicken breast, ensuring they’re lightly coated. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick and also add a little extra crispness when baked.
Dip each chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Make sure the chicken is fully coated on all sides.
Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. If you have extra breadcrumb mixture, you can sprinkle it over the top of the chicken for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.