Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound each breast to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures even cooking.
• Set up the breading station:
  • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
  • In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
  • In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Bread the chicken:
  • Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating both sides.
  • Then dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
  • Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs stick.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

• Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Fry each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, so you may need to do this in batches.
• Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In a separate skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet.
• Spoon about 2 tbsp of marinara sauce onto each piece of chicken, spreading it evenly.
• Top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

• Remove the chicken from the oven.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Serve the chicken Parmesan over pasta or with a side of garlic bread.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan!