Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. To ensure even cooking, gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
- In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another, whisk together the eggs. Finally, put the breadcrumbs in a third dish. This station is key for achieving that perfect, golden crust.
- First, dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it generously with breadcrumbs. Ensure you're getting every nook and cranny here for that crunchy texture we all love.
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as the delightful aroma will beckon you, but let it sizzle away without flipping too early.
- Once your chicken is beautifully browned, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, then place the fried chicken on top.
- Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Go napkin-free with the cheese; we all want that beautiful, gooey top!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Once your chicken is out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. Top with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color, and serve it hot with pasta or a crisp side salad.
Notes
Make sure your chicken is well-dried before seasoning and breading; otherwise, the coating will become soggy. Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and sogginess. Choose fresh marinara sauce and good-quality cheese; they make all the difference in achieving a flavorful dish.
