📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even cooking and ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Prepare the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly. Place the cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This tenderizes the chicken and promotes even cooking.
3. Season the chicken: In a shallow dish, season the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Don't be shy with the seasonings! This is where the flavor begins.
4. Set up a breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, prepare the following: Dish 1: All-purpose flour. Dish 2: Whisked eggs. Dish 3: Italian breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the whisked eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. The breadcrumbs should adhere well to the egg-covered chicken.
6. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken cutlets and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Searing the chicken creates a beautiful color and locks in the juices.
7. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
8. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan: Place the seared chicken cutlets in the prepared baking dish. Spread a layer of your favorite marinara sauce over each cutlet. Then, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, Kalamata olives (halved), and a sprinkle of feta cheese. For a little extra Mediterranean flair, add a few fresh oregano leaves.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
10. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with a side of pasta, salad, or your favorite Mediterranean sides.
11. Enjoy!! I hope you enjoy the dish. I know I did.
12. Optional: If you want even more flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a subtle kick.
13. If you're short on time, use pre-made marinara sauce. But trust me, making your own is worth the effort!
14. Don't overcook the chicken! It should be cooked through but still juicy.
15. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.