Quick Baked Chicken Parmesan

     Elevate your main dishes game with this irresistible Parmesan crusted chicken! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs (more if needed)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (more if needed)
• ½ cup olive oil (for frying, or as needed)
• ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
• ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• ½ cup grated provolone cheese
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prep the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Pound the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic (like resealable freezer bags) on a flat surface. Use the smooth side of a meat mallet to pound them to about ½ inch thickness.
3. Season the chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Lightly dust the chicken with flour, using a sifter or strainer to evenly coat each breast.
4. Bread the chicken: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese. Dip each floured chicken breast in the eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides. Let the breaded chicken rest for 10-15 minutes.
5. Fry the chicken: Heat about ½ inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it starts shimmering. Fry the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. (Don’t worry—it will finish cooking in the oven.)
6. Assemble in a baking dish: Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Top each piece with about 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce. Then layer on the mozzarella, fresh basil, and provolone. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top and drizzle each piece with a little olive oil.
7. Bake: Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the chicken is cooked through. To be sure, check with an instant-read thermometer—the internal temp should hit at least 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve and enjoy! Once baked, serve your chicken hot with your favorite sides.

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