Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (2.5g)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (120g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g), divided
  • ¼ cup olive oil (60ml)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (about 500ml)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (225g), sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch). Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with half of the Parmesan cheese in a third.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Arrange breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each breast evenly with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove from oven. Top each chicken breast with ½ cup marinara sauce and 2 slices of mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil (if desired) and serve immediately. Let it rest 5-10 minutes before plating up.