Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Pound the Chicken:

To ensure even cooking, you’ll want to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This also tenderizes the chicken.

2. Season the Chicken:

In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing the spices into the meat to adhere.

3. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’ll finish the chicken in the oven after searing it on the stovetop.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the Skillet:

In a large, oven-safe skillet (like a cast-iron skillet), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Sear the Chicken:

Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. You’re not cooking the chicken all the way through at this stage, just getting a nice sear on the outside.

3. Transfer to the Oven:

Once the chicken is seared on both sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the skillet from the oven and set aside while you prepare the Parmesan topping.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Topping

1. Mix the Parmesan Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

2. Add Mozzarella (Optional):

For an extra cheesy touch, you can mix 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella into the Parmesan topping. This will add more gooey, melty goodness to the finished dish.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Crust

1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:

In a separate bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. The melted butter helps the breadcrumbs toast up and gives them a rich, golden-brown color as they bake.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Topping and Crust

1. Spread the Parmesan Topping:

Once the chicken is cooked through, spoon the Parmesan topping evenly over each chicken breast, spreading it out to cover the entire top surface.

2. Add the Parmesan Crust:

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the Parmesan topping, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere. This is what gives the chicken that delicious, crispy, cheesy crust.

Step 6: Broil the Chicken

1. Turn on the Broiler:

Set your oven to broil and place the skillet with the chicken back in the oven. Broil for about 2-3 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. Watch it closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the Chicken:

Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

2. Serve Immediately:

Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot, with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or fries.