Ingredients
Method
Step-by-Step
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally into cutlets or pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Pat the chicken dry before breading.
- Whisk the egg with the water in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning or basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, letting excess drip away, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture until both sides are evenly coated.
- Arrange the breaded chicken in the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until the coating is lightly browned and the chicken is nearly cooked.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken piece, then sprinkle evenly with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest point.
- Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
Pound or slice the chicken evenly so the breading browns before the meat dries out. For a crisper coating, bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or lightly spray the coating with oil. Store leftovers refrigerated in a covered container and reheat until hot.
