1-First Step: Prep the chicken and oven Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if you want a crispier crust. Then butterfly the chicken breasts and cut them into thinner filets, about 2 pounds total. This step helps the baked Parmesan crusted chicken cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. A light seasoning at this stage makes the chicken taste better all the way through, not just on the outside. If your chicken pieces are thick, give them a gentle pound so they are a more even size. That helps them cook at the same speed.

2-Second Step: Mix the coating bowls Set out two shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix the 1/2 cup olive oil with the 4 cloves of fresh minced garlic. This mixture gives the chicken a rich base flavor and helps the coating stick. In the second shallow bowl, combine the 1 heaping cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup parmesan, 1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir everything well so the seasoning is spread evenly through the crumb mixture. If you are using panko, the crust will be a little lighter and crispier. Regular breadcrumbs work well too if that is what you have in the pantry.

3-Third Step: Coat each piece of chicken Dip each chicken filet into the olive oil and garlic mixture first. Turn it so both sides get coated. Then move it into the breadcrumb bowl and press the coating onto both sides. Pressing firmly matters because it helps the Parmesan crusted chicken hold onto that crunchy layer while it bakes. Keep the coated chicken pieces in a single layer as you go. If you are cooking for a larger group, it helps to work in batches so the coating does not get soggy before it reaches the pan. For gluten-free chicken parmesan style results, this same method works well with gluten-free crumbs or crushed crackers.

4-Fourth Step: Bake until golden and cooked through Place the coated chicken onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pieces are not crowded. If they touch too much, the coating will not crisp up as nicely. Bake for 8 minutes first, then flip each piece carefully and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A meat thermometer is the best way to check this without overcooking the meat. Depending on how thick your filets are, total baking time may vary a little. The crust should look golden and lightly crunchy when it is ready.

5-Final Step: Rest and serve After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the juices time to settle so every bite stays moist. Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken warm with your favorite side dishes. If you want a simple meal, roasted vegetables are a great choice. Toss zucchini, yellow squash, and grape tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roast them for 10 to 12 minutes while the chicken bakes, and you will have a full dinner with very little extra work. For another easy chicken dinner idea, take a look at my easy chicken cobbler recipe when you want something cozy and filling.