Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup (85g) Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, for pan-frying
  • 2 cups (470ml) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch/1cm).
  2. Arrange flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture (breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper) in separate shallow dishes.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C), about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking sheet. Place the fried chicken breasts on top. Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast and top with mozzarella slices.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.