Juicy breaded chicken with fresh basil pesto, marinara, and melted cheeses. A perfect meal for weeknights or special gatherings.
# Components:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Breading
03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 2 large eggs, beaten
05 - 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Toppings
07 - 1/2 cup basil pesto
08 - 1 cup marinara sauce
09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
# Method steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F.
02 - Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
03 - Arrange three shallow dishes: place flour in first, beaten eggs in second, breadcrumbs in third.
04 - Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then press into breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
05 - Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
06 - Move browned chicken to baking dish in single layer.
07 - Spread 1-2 tablespoons basil pesto over each chicken breast.
08 - Spoon 2-3 tablespoons marinara sauce over pesto layer on each piece.
09 - Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over chicken pieces.
10 - Bake 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and bubbly.
11 - Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or salad.
