make a classic Chicken Parmesan:

 Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (you can use seasoned or plain)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Topping:

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

For Serving:

Cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

In a saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Remove it from heat and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.

In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, whisk the eggs in another, and combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder in the third.

Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to adhere.

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.

Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Assemble and Bake:

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce to coat the bottom.

Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the sauce.

Spoon more marinara sauce over each chicken breast.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve:

Serve your Chicken Parmesan hot over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Parmesan, a delicious and satisfying Italian classic!