Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each), pounded to ½ inch (1.25cm) thickness
- 1 tsp (5ml) kosher salt
- ½ tsp (2.5ml) black pepper
- 1 cup (120g) plain dried breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp (15ml) dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp (2.5ml) garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp (30ml) milk
- ½ cup (120ml) olive oil, divided
- 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set up three stations: breadcrumb mixture, egg wash, and plain breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cutlets (in batches if necessary) and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to a baking sheet. Top each cutlet with marinara sauce, mozzarella slices, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil (if desired) and serve immediately.