Chicken Sorrentino Recipe

Chicken Sorrentino is a delightful Italian-American dish featuring layers of tender chicken breast, savory eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked together to golden perfection. This dish is inspired by the flavors of southern Italy and is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special gathering. With a balance of flavors from eggplant, prosciutto, and marinara, Chicken Sorrentino is indulgent, satisfying, and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Layers of Flavor: Chicken Sorrentino combines the bold flavors of eggplant, prosciutto, marinara, and cheeses to create a truly satisfying dish.
2. Versatile Dish: While it’s perfect for a special occasion, it’s also simple enough for a comforting weeknight meal.
3. Restaurant-Quality: With the perfect balance of ingredients and the ease of preparation, you’ll have a dish that rivals what you’d get at an Italian restaurant.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Slice and Salt the Eggplant: Lay the eggplant slices on a large baking sheet or cutting board. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps reduce bitterness and prevents the eggplant from becoming too mushy when cooked.
2. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the salted eggplant slices thoroughly to remove the salt, then pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Fry the Eggplant: Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Add more oil if necessary. Once cooked, place the eggplant on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/2-inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
2. Season and Dredge: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet used for the eggplant, add 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Sorrentino

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, start by arranging the seared chicken breasts in a single layer. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of each piece of chicken.
3. Add the Eggplant: Layer the fried eggplant slices over the prosciutto, adding as many slices as needed to cover each piece of chicken.
4. Top with Marinara Sauce: Spoon marinara sauce over the eggplant, spreading it evenly.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the marinara, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Sorrentino

1. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes covered, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
2. Broil (Optional): For a golden, crispy top, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the baked chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
2. Serve: Serve Chicken Sorrentino with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a balanced meal, pair it with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Sorrentino

1. Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: For the best flavor, opt for a good-quality marinara sauce or make your own at home with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs.
2. Choose Thin Chicken Breasts: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
3. Broil for Extra Crispiness: Broiling the cheese for a couple of minutes after baking creates a deliciously crispy and golden topping.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with large portobello mushroom caps or zucchini slices for a vegetarian-friendly take on this dish.
2. Add Vegetables: Add layers of roasted red bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms between the eggplant and cheese for extra flavor and nutrients.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken to make this dish gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Sorrentino can be prepared ahead and baked when ready. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.

2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the cheese less creamy.

3. Can I substitute prosciutto with another meat?
Yes, thin slices of ham or even cooked pancetta can work as a substitute for prosciutto.

4. Can I freeze Chicken Sorrentino?
This dish can be frozen after baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

5. What sides go well with Chicken Sorrentino?
Serve with garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or linguine with extra marinara sauce on the side.
2. Salad: A side of Caesar salad or arugula salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
3. Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs well with the savory flavors of Chicken Sorrentino.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sorrentino is a comforting, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s sure to impress family and guests. With its layers of tender chicken, savory prosciutto, creamy cheese, and rich marinara, this meal brings together the essence of Italian cuisine in one beautifully baked dish. Serve it for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even as a cozy meal for two, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Yield: 4

Chicken Sorrentino Recipe

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Chicken Sorrentino is a delightful Italian-American dish featuring layers of tender chicken breast, savory eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked together to golden perfection. This dish is inspired by the flavors of southern Italy and is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special gathering. With a balance of flavors from eggplant, prosciutto, and marinara, Chicken Sorrentino is indulgent, satisfying, and sure to impress.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 4 slices of eggplant, about ¼ inch thick
• 4 slices prosciutto
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
   
3. Cook the Eggplant:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until softened and lightly browned. Set the eggplant aside.
   
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Place a slice of prosciutto over each chicken breast in the baking dish. Top with a slice of cooked eggplant, then spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each piece.
   
5. Add the Cheese and Bake:
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   
6. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve hot.

Notes

• Optional Additions: For added flavor, include a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh oregano in the marinara sauce.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.