How to Make the Best Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken

Baked chicken is a perennial favorite, far healthier than fried versions and elegant enough for a dinner party. This recipe which serves six requires minimal preparation and uses ingredients likely already found in your pantry, making it an easy, delicious and filling main dish.

Things You'll Need

• 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
• 2 cups buttery round cracker crumbs
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup parsley
• 1 cup butter or margarine, melted

Instructions

1. Blend the cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper and parsley in a medium size bowl.

2. Place the butter or margarine in a medium sized microwave safe bowl. Place the bowl in a microwave and heat on high for 30 seconds. Heat for another 15 to 30 seconds if the butter is not fully melted. Remove the bowl from the microwave.

3. Dip each chicken breast in the melted butter, then in cracker mixture, turning to coat the chicken fully. Arrange the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the remaining melted butter over the chicken.

4. Place the chicken in the oven at 350 degrees. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until a fork pierced through the thickest part of the chicken releases clear juices.