Description
Chicken Christopher features tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, baked to perfection for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each seasoned chicken breast in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken breasts in the dish.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a golden top, if desired.
- Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve with pasta, salad, or garlic bread.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing Italian seasoning or additional grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy texture.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes