Italian Chicken Parmesan

Recipe Title: Italian Chicken Parmesan

Brief Description: A classic Italian dish with breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken breasts

- Salt and pepper

- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 egg, beaten

- 1 cup breadcrumbs

- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1 cup marinara sauce

- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

6. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

7. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Special Tips or Variations:

- Serve the chicken parmesan over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread.

- You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own by sautéing onions and garlic, then adding crushed tomatoes and simmering with Italian herbs.

- Feel free to add extra toppings like sliced tomatoes or fresh basil for more flavor.