Chicken Parm Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated provolone cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup prepared tomato sauce
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup olive oil for frying (you can add more if needed)
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (keep some extra handy if needed)
• 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs (you might need more, just in case)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy-duty plastic (like resealable freezer bags) on a flat surface. Use the smooth side of a meat mallet to pound the chicken to a 1/2-inch thickness.
3. Season Chicken: Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper. Using a sifter or strainer, sprinkle flour on both sides of each chicken breast.
4. Prepare Coatings: In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and set aside. In another bowl, mix together the bread crumbs and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
5. Coat Chicken: Dip each flour-coated chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then press it into the bread crumb mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. Let the coated chicken breasts rest for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Fry Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Cook the chicken in the hot oil until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Note: The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
7. Assemble Dish: Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce, followed by layers of mozzarella, fresh basil, and provolone cheese. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top and drizzle 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil over each breast.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and browned and the chicken is cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the center to ensure doneness.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parm!