Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second, whisk the eggs. In the third, combine the Italian breadcrumbs and 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese.
• Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Drain off any excess oil from the skillet.
• Pour the marinara sauce into the bottom of the same oven-safe skillet (or a baking dish).
• Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the marinara sauce.
• Top each chicken cutlet with a generous amount of marinara sauce, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and the remaining 0.5 cup of Parmesan cheese.
• Transfer the skillet (or baking dish) to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
• Let the chicken parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.