Ingredients
Method
- Pound the chicken breasts until they are about half an inch thick. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and water, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and half of the Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each chicken breast for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts on top. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece, and sprinkle mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. Add fresh basil if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a more golden topping, broil for 1 minute at the end.
- Serve hot with your choice of pasta, salad, or garlic bread.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated cheese. Avoid using too much sauce to maintain the crunch. You can prep the chicken ahead by frying it, but bake it right before serving for optimal crispiness. Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or experimenting with other cheeses for variety.