Juicy breaded chicken with basil pesto, marinara, and melty cheese. A flavorful twist, ideal for weeknight or entertaining.
# 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 mozzarella cheese, shredded
10 - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
11 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F.
02 - Pound chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
03 - Arrange three shallow dishes: place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the 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 a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
06 - Place browned chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish.
07 - Spread 1-2 tablespoons pesto over each chicken breast. Top with 2-3 tablespoons marinara sauce.
08 - Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken piece.
09 - Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and bubbly.
10 - Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately.
