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Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Delight is a dish that embodies comfort and flavor, making it a cherished favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike. With tender chicken breasts enveloped in a crispy breading, topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, this meal is perfect for both busy weekdays and special occasions. Its simplicity of preparation combined with the satisfying taste makes it an ideal choice for home cooks looking to impress their loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Delight! This mouthwatering dish features tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breading, smothered in rich marinara, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it's easy to prepare and can be customized to suit any dietary preference. Whether you stick to the classic chicken or get creative with veggie alternatives, this delightful recipe will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy hearty flavors and satisfying textures in every bite!

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Olive oil for frying

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance the flavor.

    Breading Station Setup: Create a breading assembly line to streamline the process:

      - Place the flour in a shallow dish.

        - Beat the eggs in a second dish until fully combined.

          - In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with half of the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring an even distribution.

            Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and carefully dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

              Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, pour in enough olive oil to cover the bottom with about ¼ inch of oil. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a golden brown color and are thoroughly cooked. Be mindful of overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

                Layer with Sauce and Cheese: In a baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the fried chicken breasts in a single layer within the dish. Generously spoon the remaining marinara sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully covered. Top with a mixture of shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese, distributing evenly for optimal melting.

                  Bake to Perfection: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.

                    Garnish and Serve: After baking, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the top with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti or a vibrant garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4