1-First Step: Preheat and prep the pan Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup stays easy. If you want extra crispiness, set a wire rack on top of the baking sheet so air can move around the chicken while it bakes.

2-Second Step: Slice and season the chicken Butterfly the chicken breasts and cut them into thin filets if they are not already sliced. You want pieces that cook quickly and evenly. Pat the chicken dry if needed, then season both sides with salt and pepper. This small step gives the meat better flavor all the way through.

3-Third Step: Mix the coating bowls Grab two shallow bowls. In the first bowl, stir together the olive oil and minced garlic. In the second bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well so the seasonings spread evenly through the breadcrumb mixture.

4-Fourth Step: Coat each piece of chicken Dip one chicken filet into the olive oil mixture and coat both sides. Then move it into the breadcrumb bowl. Press the crumbs onto the chicken firmly so the crust sticks well. Repeat with the rest of the chicken pieces. Take your time here. A good, even coating makes a big difference in how crunchy the finished chicken turns out. If the breadcrumbs start clumping, just stir them again before moving on.

5-Fifth Step: Arrange on the baking sheet Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack in a single layer. Leave a little space between each piece so they can crisp instead of steaming. Overcrowding is one of the quickest ways to lose crunch.

6-Sixth Step: Bake, flip, and finish Bake the chicken for 8 minutes, then flip each piece carefully. Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filets. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. A meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness without guessing. If you want a little extra crunch, broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes at the end. Watch it closely so the coating does not burn. This final step can give the top a deeper golden color and a little more texture.

7-Final Step: Rest and serve Let the chicken rest briefly before serving. This helps keep the juices inside the meat so the chicken stays tender. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy that crisp Parmesan crust right away.