Crispy Italian Chicken Topped With Mozzarella is a delicious blend of rich Italian flavors, combining a golden-brown crispy chicken cutlet with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish brings together classic elements from Italy’s culinary traditions, from the tangy tomatoes to the creamy mozzarella and the perfectly breaded chicken cutlet. While it may remind some of Chicken Parmesan, the focus here is on the pure, clean flavors of mozzarella. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress guests. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this easy and delectable Italian classic!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, then pound them gently to an even thickness. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Bread the Chicken:
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
Take each chicken breast, coat it in the flour (shaking off any excess), dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
3. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken breasts in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top with Mozzarella:
Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Top each with slices of fresh mozzarella, then sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is out of the oven, sprinkle it with freshly chopped basil and parsley. Serve immediately with a side of spaghetti, a fresh Caprese salad, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Crispy Italian Chicken Topped With Mozzarella:
- Use Panko for Extra Crispiness: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs. Mix in some Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Frying Step: Pan-frying the chicken ensures a crispy, golden exterior. Baking alone won’t give the same texture.
- Fresh Mozzarella is Key: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and offers a creamy texture that complements the crispy chicken. Shredded mozzarella can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Serve Immediately: For the best results, serve the chicken immediately after baking to enjoy the crispy crust and melty mozzarella at their peak.
Variations:
- Crispy Italian Chicken Topped With Mozzarella and Tomato: Add slices of fresh tomatoes or a thick tomato slice under the mozzarella for added flavor and freshness. It’s similar to a Caprese Chicken, which features the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Mozzarella-Crusted Chicken: If you’re looking for an even cheesier version, press shredded mozzarella into the breading mixture before frying for a crusted effect.
- Chicken Cutlet Mozzarella Sandwich: This chicken can be transformed into a delicious sandwich. Place the crispy chicken between a toasted bun, add extra marinara sauce, and melt mozzarella for an Italian-inspired chicken sandwich.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Crispy Italian Chicken Topped With Mozzarella is an easy, flavorful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italy right to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to impress. The crispy chicken paired with the melty mozzarella and savory marinara sauce makes every bite delightful. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. If you loved this dish, check out more Italian-inspired recipes on our site, such as our Crispy Halloumi Cheese With Caper Sauce or Baked Feta Pasta. Happy cooking.