Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap. Use the flat side of a meat mallet to pound them to a uniform 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, and Bowl 3 with a mixture of panko, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika.
  3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg wash, and then press firmly into the panko-parmesan mixture until the coating is thick and even.
  4. Place chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until the crust is golden. Top the center of each breast with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil.