Trust me, this dish is a game-changer. Picture tender chicken breasts, crispy on the outside, with layers of melty cheese, savory prosciutto, and the most delectable marinara sauce all wrapped up in one bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, yet with just enough flair to impress anyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or making a special meal for loved ones, Chicken Sorrentino is sure to be the star of the show. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love Chicken Sorrentino
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of Chicken Sorrentino—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds that savory, salty kick we all crave. It pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese, giving this dish an irresistible flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts like a dream, creating that perfect, gooey texture that pulls apart in the best way possible.
Parmesan Cheese: A little parmesan for that sharp, nutty flavor—because, let’s be real, what’s a chicken dish without a little extra cheese?
Marinara Sauce: The sauce brings it all together with its rich, tangy goodness. Whether you’re using homemade or store-bought, make sure it’s something you really enjoy.
Breadcrumbs: These add the perfect crispy texture to the chicken, giving every bite a satisfying crunch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. This step gives the chicken that crispy golden crust when baked.
Assemble the Dish: Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Top each piece with a slice of prosciutto, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. Then, drizzle with marinara sauce and sprinkle with parmesan.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly. The prosciutto should be crispy, and the chicken will be juicy and tender.
Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors settle in and makes it easier to serve.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, Chicken Sorrentino is sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Chicken Sorrentino
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation: Serve the dish in a beautifully arranged platter, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute prosciutto with another meat?
A1: Absolutely! If prosciutto isn’t your thing, you can use thinly sliced ham or even turkey breast. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it through the assembly step and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! You can easily double this recipe. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish or bake in batches.
Q7: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A7: Of course! If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara sauce works just fine. But if you have the time, homemade sauce will take this dish to the next level.
Q8: Can I use a different cheese?
A8: Absolutely! If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with provolone or even a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Q9: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A9: Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Q10: Is this recipe spicy?
A10: Not at all! This recipe is mild, but you can easily add a bit of heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you like a little kick.
Conclusion
Chicken Sorrentino is a simple yet impressive dish that will bring warmth and comfort to your table. It’s packed with layers of flavor and texture that make each bite a little slice of heaven. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the amazing meal you just created!
Print
Chicken Sorrentino
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked, Pan-fried
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Chicken Sorrentino is a delightful dish featuring layers of breaded chicken, eggplant, prosciutto, and cheese in a zesty tomato sauce, infused with Marsala wine for added depth and richness. A perfect dish for a special dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian eggplant
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (3 breast halves, 8-ounces each)
- 3 whole eggs with a tablespoon of water
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cups yellow onion, diced large
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced fine
- 1/4 cup Marsala wine
- 1 cup chicken stock, homemade if possible
- 1 28–ounce can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, placed into a bowl and squeezed by hand
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces Fontina cheese, sliced into 18 slices
- 1/2 cup Romano cheese, grated
- 4 ounces sliced Prosciutto
- 6 ounces sliced deli Provolone cheese
Instructions
- Trim ends off of the eggplant and slice into quarter-inch-thick long slices. Lay slices over paper towels and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let sit for 15 minutes, then wipe off the salt.
- Trim and butterfly the chicken breasts, then cut into 6 portions, each about a quarter inch thick. Set aside.
- Beat eggs with a tablespoon of water in a pie plate. In a second pie plate, mix flour, table salt, and white pepper.
- Dip eggplant slices into egg, then flour, and set aside on a plate. Repeat the same process for the chicken portions.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat a large ovenproof skillet or braiser over medium-high heat. Add half of the vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Cook half of the eggplant for 2-3 minutes per side, removing to paper towels when done. Repeat with the remaining eggplant using the rest of the oil.
- Remove the skillet from heat and wipe out the pan with paper towels to remove excess oil.
Notes
- The eggplant should be cooked until golden brown, not too dark, to maintain its texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a more intense Marsala flavor, you can increase the amount of Marsala wine in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 150mg