Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are not only a healthy form of protein but also the height of simplicity. They can also be boring and quite dry if not prepared well. Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts elevate a simple meal and eliminate any concerns. Add herbs liked minced basil, seasoned bread crumbs, or a favorite infused olive oil to play with the flavors. Bottom line, I think you'll find these chicken breasts to be the definition of simplicity as well as delicious. Prepare for a regular weekday meal with the family or for a weekend dinner party with friends. Everyone will leave the table satisfied.
Baked Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts
1 cup bread crumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), trimmed
¼ cup mayonnaise
- Place oven rack in upper-middle position and heat oven to 425°F.
- Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pat chicken dry and transfer to a 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Spread mayonnaise evenly over chicken. Sprinkle bread crumb mixture evenly over mayonnaise, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Bake until crumbs are golden brown and instant-read thermometer in thickest part of chicken registers 160° F, 18 to 22 minutes.
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
