Description

A hearty chicken parmesan sandwich made with crispy breaded chicken cutlets, warm marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil, all served on toasted ciabatta for a comforting and bold meal.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 breasts)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup Italian breadcrumbs

1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1/2 tablespoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Neutral oil, for frying

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup marinara sauce, warmed and divided

1 loaf ciabatta bread or 4 ciabatta rolls

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create cutlets and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, panko, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Heat about 1/2 inch of neutral oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, then egg, then the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
Fry the chicken cutlets for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Lightly toast the ciabatta bread or rolls in the oven.
Assemble the sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom halves of the bread, adding a chicken cutlet, spooning over more marinara, and topping with mozzarella and fresh basil.
Place the top halves of the bread on the sandwiches and bake until the cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Notes

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer flavor.

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara for extra heat.

Store leftover chicken separately from the bread to prevent sogginess.

Reheat chicken in the oven or skillet for best texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying and Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 650
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 1100mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 150mg