# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Breading
03 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 tablespoon water
06 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Topping
08 - 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beat eggs with water in the second, and combine breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese in the third.
04 - Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
05 - Arrange coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature.
06 - Remove chicken from oven, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, then evenly sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese.
07 - Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
