Kittencal's Moist Cheddar-Garlic Oven Fried Chicken Breast

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (can use more or less)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (garlic lovers can use more)
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or white salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumb (can use 3/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup finely grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• shredded cheddar cheese (optional) or shredded mozzarella cheese, use any amount desired (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   Set oven to 350°F.

2. 2

   Butter an 11 x 7-inch pan (if using more than 4 breasts use a larger pan).

3. 3

   In a bowl, combine melted butter with fresh minced garlic, garlic powder and salt.

4. 4

   In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup finely grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese and coarse ground black pepper.

5. 5

   Dip chicken in butter mixture; then in crumb mixture.

6. 6

   Place in prepared pan and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes (placing the chicken on a rack in a pan will produce an extra crispy crust and for moist tender breasts cooking time should take no more than at the most 35 minutes unless they are very large then you might have to add on a couple extra minutes).

7. 7

   Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella the last 5 minutes of cooking (this is only optional.

8. 8

   **Note** the original directions stated to bake covered for half of the cooking time, I have since changed it to bake uncovered the full time for a crispier coating.