Crispy Chicken Caprese Sandwich (Printable View)

Golden breaded chicken with fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and ripe tomato on toasted ciabatta. A satisfying Italian-American favorite.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/3 cup olive oil for frying

→ For the Sandwich

11 - 4 ciabatta rolls, halved
12 - 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
13 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
14 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
15 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
16 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
17 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets of even thickness.
03 - Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
05 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken cutlets for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a baking sheet.
06 - Top each cutlet with mozzarella slices and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until cheese is melted.
07 - Toast ciabatta rolls until crisp and lightly golden.
08 - On each roll bottom, arrange basil leaves and tomato slices. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
09 - Place a crispy chicken cutlet with melted mozzarella on top of the tomato layer. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
10 - Cap with the top half of the ciabatta roll. Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The contrast between the golden crunch and the soft ciabatta is absolutely worth the extra dishes
  • Something magical happens when the balsamic hits the warm mozzarella and fresh tomato together
02 -
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken or the temperature will drop and you will lose your coveted crunch
  • Let the chicken rest for a minute after frying so the juices redistribute and do not escape when you bite in
03 -
  • Season every single layer, not just the final sandwich, because seasoned chicken plus seasoned tomatoes equals maximum flavor impact
  • Let the fried chicken drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep that bottom crust from getting soggy
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