Ingredients
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups dry bread crumbs (Italian-style or panko)
- 1⅓ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried basil (or 1 tsp Italian seasoning)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika or ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 12 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 2.5–3 lbs), pounded to ½-inch thickness
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil and garlic over low heat for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan, basil, pepper, and any optional spices.
- Brush chicken pieces on both sides with garlic oil. Press into breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
- Place chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil or drizzle any remaining garlic oil over the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use panko for extra crunch.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier version.
- Press the chicken firmly into breading for best adhesion.
- Space chicken evenly on the tray to avoid steaming.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
