Chicken Sorrentino

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Sorrentino is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s full of flavor. The combination of crispy breaded chicken, melty mozzarella, and the savory eggplant  creates a satisfying, balanced meal. The marinara sauce ties everything together, adding richness and depth. It’s a great dish for those who love Italian flavors but want something a little different from the usual chicken parm. The dish is simple to prepare but looks and tastes gourmet, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Olive oil (for frying)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Eggplant:

1. Salt the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a colander and sprinkle them generously with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 30 minutes, pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels.

2. Fry the eggplant: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Prepare the Chicken:

3. Dredge the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.

4. Fry the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Assemble the Dish:

5. Assemble the Sorrentino: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish. Top each piece of chicken , a few fried eggplant rounds, and a slice of mozzarella.

6. Bake: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and eggplant. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and serve: Remove the Chicken Sorrentino from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

8. Enjoy: Enjoy the layers of flavor in your delicious Chicken Sorrentino!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 35 minutes

• Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian version of Sorrentino, using the same ingredients for a satisfying meal.

• Different cheese: You can experiment with other types of cheese, like provolone, for a slightly different flavor profile.

• Add olives: For a Mediterranean twist, add a few black or green olives to the marinara sauce before baking.

• Use chicken thighs: If you prefer a juicier and more flavorful option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Sorrentino in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the breading may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken  or veal cutlets for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make Chicken Sorrentino ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and eggplant ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the dish and bake it.

3. Can I use store-bought eggplant for this recipe?

If you don’t want to fry the eggplant, you can use pre-cooked or grilled eggplant slices from the store. However, frying the eggplant adds a rich flavor and texture to the dish.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella di bufala, provolone, or even ricotta for a different twist on the traditional recipe. Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to get creative with your cheese!

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. You can use a meat thermometer to check.

6. Can I freeze Chicken Sorrentino?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked dish for up to 3 months. To cook, bake it directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

Chicken Sorrentino is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or any special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, , crispy eggplant, and gooey mozzarella creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Whether you serve it with pasta or enjoy it on its own, Chicken Sorrentino is sure to be a hit at your table. Give this Italian classic a try, and enjoy a satisfying, gourmet meal in the comfort of your home!

---

Print