2large bonelessskinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise)
1cupall-purpose flour
2large eggs
1tablespoonwater
1½cupsItalian-seasoned breadcrumbs
½cupfreshly grated Parmesan cheese
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoononion powder
½teaspoonkosher salt
½teaspoonblack pepper
Neutral oil for fryingavocado or vegetable oil
Sauce & Cheese:
1½cupshigh-quality marinara saucethick, not watery
8sliceswhole-milk mozzarella cheese
Extra grated Parmesan cheese for finishing
Bread & Assembly:
4hoagie rolls or Italian sandwich rolls
2tablespoonsbuttersoftened
1teaspoongarlic powder
Fresh basil or parsleyoptional
Instructions
Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets, about ¼ to ⅜ inch thick. Pound to uniform thickness if needed and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with eggs whisked with water, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure coating adheres. Let breaded cutlets rest for 5 to 10 minutes before frying.
Heat ½ inch of neutral oil in a large skillet to 350°F. Fry cutlets 2 at a time for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.
Mix softened butter with garlic powder. Split hoagie rolls and spread garlic butter on cut sides. Toast cut-side down in a skillet or under broiler until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Preheat broiler to high. Place roll bottoms on a baking sheet and top each with a fried chicken cutlet. Spoon ¼ cup marinara over each cutlet, add 2 slices mozzarella, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and top with the toasted roll tops. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Video
Notes
Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; cook only 2 cutlets at a time to maintain oil temperature at 350°F. Use a wire rack for draining instead of paper towels to keep breading crispy. Control sauce amount to prevent soggy bread; ¼ cup per sandwich is enough. These sandwiches are best served immediately after assembly while the breading is still crunchy. You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate uncovered, then fry just before serving.