Chicken Sorrentino

The Chicken Sorrentino is a true Italian delight with crispy golden chicken, layers of tender eggplant, and melty mozzarella. Topped with fresh marinara sauce, it’s a comforting dish that brings together all your favorite flavors in one bite.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you’re hosting friends for a night in. The crispy texture of the chicken pairs beautifully with the softness of the eggplant and the gooey cheese. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, Chicken Sorrentino is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Full Recipe:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup flour

2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 eggplant, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil, for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Slice the eggplant into thin rounds. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Flatten the chicken breasts using a meat mallet, then season with salt and pepper.
Dredge the chicken breasts in flour, dip them in the beaten eggs, then coat them in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Once the chicken is cooked, place it on a baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with a slice of eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and a spoonful of marinara sauce.
Bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

Recipe Overview

Chicken Sorrentino is a delicious Italian-American dish that combines tender, breaded chicken cutlets with savory layers of eggplant, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. It’s a classic comfort food often associated with hearty Italian family dinners and is the perfect blend of crispy, melty, and flavorful. This dish has become a beloved staple in many Italian-American households and restaurants, known for its ability to satisfy and impress.

The crispy chicken cutlets are perfectly paired with the soft eggplant and gooey melted mozzarella, all topped with a rich marinara sauce. It’s an incredibly comforting and satisfying dish that feels luxurious, yet is simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner party, Chicken Sorrentino is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

History and Origin

Chicken Sorrentino is an Italian-American creation, though it’s not something you’d typically find in Italy itself. The name “Sorrentino” comes from the southern Italian city of Sorrento, which is famous for its lemon groves and picturesque coastal views. However, the dish’s origin is more rooted in Italian-American cuisine than traditional Italian cooking. It likely developed as a way to bring together the familiar flavors of chicken parmigiana with the more seasonal and Mediterranean ingredients like eggplant.

In Italy, dishes involving breaded meat cutlets, such as “cotoletta alla Milanese,” are popular, but it wasn’t until Italian immigrants arrived in America that these types of dishes began to take on the more elaborate and cheese-laden forms we see in Italian-American restaurants today. Chicken Sorrentino is a modern twist on the beloved Chicken Parmesan, incorporating the rich and earthy taste of eggplant, a vegetable frequently used in Mediterranean cooking.

While there isn’t a definitive story behind the invention of Chicken Sorrentino, its association with Southern Italian immigrants and their adaptation of traditional recipes using locally available ingredients makes it an emblematic Italian-American dish.

Variations and Adaptations

Like many classic Italian-American dishes, Chicken Sorrentino has undergone a variety of adaptations over the years. While the traditional version consists of breaded chicken topped with eggplant, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, many variations exist to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Vegetarian Sorrentino: Some variations of Chicken Sorrentino opt to replace the chicken with other proteins, such as eggplant itself or tofu, for a more plant-based approach. The eggplant layers provide a similar texture to the chicken, making it a satisfying alternative for vegetarians.

Adding Prosciutto or Ham: Some versions of Chicken Sorrentino include a slice of prosciutto or ham, layering it between the chicken and eggplant. The salty cured ham adds depth to the dish, creating a more savory experience.
Cheese Substitutes: While mozzarella is the cheese of choice, other Italian cheeses like provolone or fontina can be used for a slightly different flavor profile. Some chefs even use a combination of cheeses to create a more complex and richer topping.
Different Sauces: While marinara is the classic sauce for Chicken Sorrentino, you can also use other types of tomato sauces, such as a spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a unique twist on this traditional dish.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Sorrentino is a hearty, flavorful dish that can be quite filling, though it’s worth noting that it is also relatively high in calories and fat due to the breading, cheese, and oil used in preparation. Below is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of Chicken Sorrentino:

Calories: 450-500 kcal per serving (depending on portion size and the exact ingredients used)

Protein: 35-40g (from the chicken and cheese)
Fat: 20-25g (including healthy fats from olive oil and cheese)
Carbohydrates: 25-30g (mainly from the breading and the eggplant)

Fiber: 3-5g (eggplant and tomato sauce contribute to fiber content)
Sodium: 700-800mg (due to the cheese and marinara sauce)
Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in calcium (from mozzarella cheese) and vitamin A (from the eggplant), as well as vitamin C (from the tomato sauce).

While not necessarily a light dish, Chicken Sorrentino can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. To reduce calories and fat, consider using a lighter breading, opting for a lower-fat cheese, or reducing the amount of oil used in cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken Sorrentino is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside this delicious dish:

Pasta: A side of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, is a classic pairing. Toss the pasta in a light olive oil and garlic sauce or serve it with extra marinara sauce for a more indulgent experience.
Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Garlic Bread: For an extra dose of flavor, serve your Chicken Sorrentino with some warm, crispy garlic bread. It’s perfect for sopping up any extra marinara sauce on your plate.
Wine Pairing: When it comes to wine, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or a Merlot pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce. For white wine enthusiasts, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay works well to balance the richness of the dish.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Chicken Sorrentino turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

Properly bread the chicken: Ensure that your chicken cutlets are evenly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to get that golden, crispy texture. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Don’t skip the eggplant step: While eggplant may seem like an optional ingredient, it’s essential to the dish. The eggplant not only adds flavor and texture but also soaks up the marinara sauce, creating a perfect balance of moisture and crispness.

Use fresh mozzarella: For the best melting and flavor, use fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded cheese. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and has a soft, creamy texture that complements the chicken and eggplant.
Bake instead of frying (optional): For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded chicken cutlets in the oven instead of frying them in oil. This will reduce the amount of oil and fat in the dish while still achieving a crispy exterior.

Potential Health Benefits

Chicken Sorrentino can offer a variety of health benefits due to its key ingredients. The chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. The eggplant is rich in antioxidants, particularly nasunin, which supports brain health and combats inflammation. Additionally, tomatoes, which make up the marinara sauce, are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that promotes heart health.

While the dish is not necessarily low in calories or fat, it does provide a balanced mix of macronutrients—protein, fat, and carbohydrates—which can help you feel satisfied and full after eating. It also includes vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health, especially if you serve it alongside a salad and whole-grain pasta.

Conclusion

Chicken Sorrentino is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the best of Italian-American cuisine to your table. With its crispy chicken, melty cheese, and tender eggplant, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Whether you stick with the classic version or try a variation, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

So, gather your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy the deliciousness of Chicken Sorrentino – your taste buds will thank you!