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Parmesan Chicken

Parmesan Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the chicken:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, or use a meat mallet to flatten them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking.
  2. Set up breading station:
    • In one shallow dish, place the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
    • In another dish, beat the eggs.
    • In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Bread the chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
    • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs.
    • Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the chicken:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Fry the breaded chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You might need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
    • Once fried, place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Assemble the dish:
    • In a baking dish, spread a small amount of marinara sauce on the bottom.
    • Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
    • Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
    • Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake the chicken:
    • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • If you like the cheese a bit browned, you can place the dish under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve:
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve with pasta, a side salad, or on a sandwich bun for a chicken parm sandwich.

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and savory Parmesan Chicken!