Ingredients
Method
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 cutlets. Place between plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow dishes: flour in the first; eggs beaten in the second; and in the third, combine the panko, Italian breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- Dredge each cutlet in flour and shake off the excess, then dip in egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture on both sides so it is fully coated.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Fry the cutlets until deep golden brown and crisp, 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through (165°F). Work in batches so you do not crowd the pan. Drain on a wire rack — not paper towels — to keep the crust crisp.
- Position an oven rack near the top and heat the broiler. Spread a thin layer of marinara across the bottom of a baking dish. Set the fried cutlets on top, then spoon just 1–2 tablespoons of sauce over the center of each, leaving the edges exposed so they stay crisp.
- Top each cutlet with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan. Broil 3–5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and browned in spots.
- Rest 2 minutes, then finish with torn fresh basil. Serve with extra warm marinara on the side and a pile of pasta.
Notes
For the crispiest result, never let the fried cutlets sit in sauce — assemble and broil right before serving. Fry the cutlets ahead of time and hold them on a rack, then sauce, cheese, and broil at the last minute. Fresh mozzarella tastes best but should be patted dry to avoid a watery top. Serve over pasta with Cousin Mike's Homemade Marinara Sauce and Homemade Garlic Bread.
