Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)
- 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (90 grams) breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk eggs together until well blended. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture. Place breaded chicken on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add breaded chicken to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on one side (about 4-5 minutes), flip, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Transfer fried chicken to a baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake until the cheese is bubbly and browned, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.