Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Place the grated Parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined to create your crust mixture.
Rub each chicken breast with a tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will help the crust stick and turn crispy.
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness if needed, then press each piece into the Parmesan mixture, making sure to coat all sides thoroughly. Gently press the crust onto the meat to help it adhere.
Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
Spritz or lightly drizzle the chicken with the remaining olive oil for extra crispiness and golden color.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll see the crust crisp up and bubble in spots.
Remove the sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes; this helps juices settle and maintains moisture inside.
Serve the Parmesan crusted chicken hot, with optional side dishes like a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
