Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
3. Coat chicken breasts in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally press into breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

• For a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• If you like a bit of heat, stir red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce before spooning it over the chicken.

• Chicken Breasts: Can be replaced with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenders.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine. Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal are good alternatives.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds creaminess, while shredded mozzarella is convenient and reliable. Provolone also works well.
• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade both work. Add red pepper flakes if you want extra spice.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed for even browning.
• Let the chicken rest briefly after baking to keep it juicy.
• A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
• Extra Flavor: Layer prosciutto or pepperoni between the chicken and cheese.
• Casserole Style: Arrange everything in a baking dish and bake until bubbly.
• Spicy Version: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinara.

• Pasta like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine
• Garlic bread to soak up the sauce
• A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad
• Roasted vegetables such as broccoli or zucchini