Diva’s Crispy Baked Chicken

2 pounds “pounded” boneless & skinless chicken breasts
(cut to 12 pieces)
1 clove “crushed” garlic
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons “chopped” parsley
1 cup store bought plain bread crumbs
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup finely “chopped” almonds
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh ground pepper “to taste” (a pinch is all that is needed)
Garnish with a sprig of Italian parsley

Fully mix in a medium bowl, cheese, garlic, thyme, salt, bread crumbs, almonds, pepper, and parsley. Get a shallow baking pan ready for the chicken.

In a separate dish, pour the olive oil. Now, dip the chicken in the oil and then dredge it through the mixture. Place the chicken on the baking pan and cook. Do not ever turn the chicken while it is cooking. The chicken is cooked when the juices run clear or when a thermometer inserted in the center of a piece registers 170°F. The parsley sprig is for garnish.

Baking time is 25 to 30 minutes.

Diva Tip:

• Progresso bread crumbs are preferred because whole grain crumbs tend to not add the crispiness that this chicken deserves.