Crispy Baked Chicken with Melted Cheese

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. **Preheat oven** to **400°F (200°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix **panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper**.
3. Brush chicken breasts with **olive oil or melted butter** to help the coating stick.
4. Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.

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### **Step 2: Bake the Chicken**
5. Place the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: **165°F**).

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### **Step 3: Add the Melted Cheese**
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and **top each piece with shredded mozzarella cheese**.
8. (Optional) Spoon **a bit of marinara sauce** over each chicken breast before adding the cheese for an Italian-inspired twist.
9. Return to the oven and bake for another **5 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!**
10. Sprinkle with **fresh parsley** for a burst of color and flavor.
11. Serve hot with your favorite sides like **garlic bread, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad**.

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## **Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Chicken**
✔️ **Use Panko Breadcrumbs** – They create the crispiest texture.
✔️ **Grate Fresh Parmesan** – It melts better and adds a deeper flavor.
✔️ **Don’t Overbake** – Check for doneness at 20 minutes to keep the chicken juicy.
✔️ **Let it Rest** – Allow the chicken to sit for 2-3 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

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## **Serving Suggestions**
This crispy baked chicken pairs perfectly with:
🍝 **Pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce**
🥗 **A fresh side salad**
🥔 **Garlic mashed potatoes**
🥦 **Steamed or roasted vegetables**

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## **Storage & Reheating**
– **Refrigerate** leftovers in an airtight container for **up to 3 days**.
– **Reheat** in the oven at **375°F for 10 minutes** or in an air fryer to maintain crispiness.

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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Crispy Baked Chicken with Melted Cheese** is an easy, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress! Whether you serve it with pasta, salad, or enjoy it on its own, it’s bound to become a **family favorite**.

Try it tonight and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite! 🧀🍗🔥