Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to 1/2-inch thickness (approximately 680g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs (200g), preferably panko for extra crispiness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, for frying (120ml)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (225g), sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté garlic in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper and sugar. Simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  2. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in the third dish.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken cutlets until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
  6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place fried chicken cutlets on top of the sauce. Cover each cutlet with more marinara sauce and slices of mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.