First Step: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare your workspace. This step ensures everything is ready for baking, which helps achieve that perfect melt on the cheese later. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like making it gluten-free, have your substitutes prepared now.

Second Step: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing each one horizontally to create thin halves, giving you six pieces total. Pat them dry and season with salt and pepper for better flavor absorption. For those watching calories, this is a good time to trim any excess fat.

Third Step: Beat the 2 eggs in a shallow bowl until well mixed. This creates the base for your breading, helping it stick to the chicken. If going vegan, use a flax egg as a substitute here to keep things simple and effective.

Fourth Step: In another bowl, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko, ¼ cup of the grated parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors. For whole wheat options, swap in whole wheat breadcrumbs to add more fiber without changing the steps much.

Fifth Step: Dip each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press it into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly, shaking off any excess. This double-dip method works for various preferences, like using panko for extra crunch in a low-fat version.

Sixth Step: Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for about 2 minutes per side until golden, but don’t cook it all the way through. This step is crucial for that crispy texture; adapt by using an air fryer if you’re aiming for a healthier fry.

Seventh Step: Pour a thin layer of the 24 ounces marinara sauce into a 9×13 baking dish. Place the browned chicken on top and spoon more sauce over each piece. For low-sodium diets, choose a low-sodium marinara to adjust the flavors.

Eighth Step: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese over the chicken. This adds the cheesy goodness that makes the dish special. If you’re reducing dairy, use less cheese or a vegan alternative here.

Ninth Step: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, especially if adapting for quicker meals. Once done, garnish with fresh basil.

Final Step: Serve the Parmesan chicken over hot cooked spaghetti noodles, and offer extra sauce if desired. This completes the meal, and you can pair it with veggies for a balanced plate. The total time is about 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules. Remember, this recipe serves as a great base for variations, like using zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.