Creating Baked Chicken Parmesan involves just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a perfect result:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Prepare Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. Mix Breadcrumbs: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and additional salt and pepper.

4. Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere them well.

5. Arrange in Dish: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added crispiness.

6. Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

7. Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

8. Return to Oven: Place the dish back in the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish: Once baked, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the dish for a burst of flavor and color.