Chef's Tip
For the crispiest chicken, use a wire rack on your baking sheet when initially baking the breaded cutlets. This allows hot air to circulate underneath, ensuring even browning on both sides without flipping.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
- Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second dish, and combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, and garlic powder in a third dish.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on both sides, about 2 minutes per side, working in batches if needed (chicken will finish cooking in oven).
- Transfer browned chicken to prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- While chicken bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 cup of marinara sauce.
- Warm remaining marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Remove chicken from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve chicken over sauced ziti, garnished with fresh basil, additional Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Plating
Place a portion of sauced ziti pasta in the center of a warmed plate. Position a chicken cutlet partially overlapping the pasta. Spoon additional marinara sauce around the plate and sprinkle with fresh basil and grated Parmesan. For a restaurant presentation, add a small fresh basil sprig for garnish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, place in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. The pasta and chicken can be stored together or separately. If storing separately, combine when reheating.
About This Recipe
This hearty Italian-American classic is inspired by the Baked Chicken Parmigiana with Ziti served at Hilltop Steakhouse. The combination of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella creates a satisfying comfort food dish. This homemade version captures the essence of the restaurant favorite with careful preparation and quality ingredients.