Chicken Parm Hero Recipe

Pound and season

Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make 2 thinner cutlets (or butterfly and then slice). Place cutlets between plastic wrap and lightly pound with a meat mallet to an even thickness about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Set up breading stations

Place the flour in a shallow dish. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and 2 tablespoons milk until combined. In a third shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper; mix well.

Bread the chicken

Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess, dip into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly. Place breaded cutlets on a plate and let rest 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.

Fry the cutlets

Pour 1 cup vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach about 1/4 inch depth and heat over medium-high until shimmering (about 350°F or when a breadcrumb sizzles gently). Fry cutlets in batches 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. If oil smokes, reduce heat slightly.

Heat sauce

While frying or after, warm the 2 cups marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until simmering, stirring occasionally.

Assemble for melting

Preheat the oven broiler or set oven to 425°F (if using an oven). Place fried cutlets on a baking sheet. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons warm marinara over each cutlet, then top each with 1/3 to 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top. Broil or bake just until cheese melts and bubbles, about 2–4 minutes under broiler or 6–8 minutes at 425°F. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Prepare bread

Slice the Italian loaf horizontally to make the hero. If desired, remove some interior crumb to make room for the cutlets. Spread softened butter lightly on cut sides. Toast the loaf cut-side up under the broiler or in a hot oven for 2–4 minutes until golden.

Build the sandwich

Spoon a thin layer of warmed marinara onto the bottom half of the toasted bread. Place one or two (depending on size) cheese-melted chicken cutlets on top. Spoon additional marinara over the cutlets, add a few fresh basil leaves if using, and sprinkle a little grated Parmesan. Close with the top half of the bread.

Slice and serve

Press gently, slice the hero into serving portions (typically 2–4 slices depending on loaf and appetite). Serve warm, sliced clean as requested.