1. 1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.

2. 2. Season the Chicken and Asparagus: In a large bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces and asparagus. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the chicken and asparagus are evenly coated. Spread this mixture in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.

3. 3. Whip Up the Creamy Parmesan Topping: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. 4. Spread the Topping Over the Chicken and Asparagus: Carefully spoon the creamy Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken and asparagus in the baking dish. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every single piece perfectly; it will spread as it bakes.

5. 5. Add the Final Parmesan Layer: Sprinkle an additional tablespoon or two of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the creamy mixture. This extra layer will create that beautiful golden-brown crust.

6. 6. Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165 F or 74 C), the asparagus should be tender-crisp, and the Parmesan crust should be beautifully golden brown and bubbly.

7. 7. Rest and Garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.