Kittencal's Moist Cheddar-Garlic Oven-Fried Chicken Breast

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (use 2 tablespoons for extreme flavor!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (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).

7. 7

   **NOTE** 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).

8. 8

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

9. 9

   **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.