Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories per Serving: 345

Crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets, perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, are nestled beneath a rich layer of marinara sauce and topped with melted, fresh mozzarella. Finished with fragrant basil, this comforting dish is a symphony of classic Italian flavors, blending savory, cheesy, and herbaceous notes in every bite. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an indulgent weeknight treat.

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INGREDIENTS

1 lbs chicken breasts
1 cup marinara sauce
4oz fresh mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup vegetable oil
Fresh basil (for garnish)

EGG MIXTURE
3 eggs
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper (to taste)

BREADCRUMB MIXTURE
1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/3 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1
Cut each chicken breast into thin, even cutlets by slicing horizontally. If the cutlets are thick, you can gently pound them with a meat mallet to ensure uniform thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

STEP 2
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, minced garlic, and 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Add the chicken cutlets to the mixture, ensuring they're fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30-minutes to let the flavors infuse. 

STEP 3
In another shallow bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and salt/pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings. 

STEP 4
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each cutlet in the breadcrumbs mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to all sides. 

STEP 5
In a large frying pan, heat 1/3 cup of vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil) over Medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded cutlets in a single layer. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the pan and place on a wire rack to keep them crispy.

STEP 6
Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce over each fried chicken cutlet, then top with thick slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.

STEP 7
Broil the cutlets for 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts, bubbles, and develops a slight golden color.

STEP 8
Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve immediately over homemade spaghetti or your favorite Italian dish. Enjoy!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

345 calories | 34.9g protein | 7.1g carbs | 19.3g fat