Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup olive oil (for frying)
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after frying.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally and pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and and black pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with the breadcrumb mixture (Italian-style breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano).
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour to coat, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even coat.
- Fry Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken cutlets for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the fried chicken cutlets into a baking dish in a single layer.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each chicken piece and then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- Chicken can be baked instead of fried to reduce oil and make a lighter version of this dish.
- Serve over spaghetti or with a fresh side salad to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be reheated well in the oven to preserve the crispiness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American