Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients

• Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Topping

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with a wire rack and lightly grease.
2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Set up a breading station: flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second, and breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup Parmesan in a third.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour (shaking off excess), dip in egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides.
5. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breaded chicken for 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
6. Transfer chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165 degrees F / 74 degrees C).
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve over spaghetti or with a side salad.