Chicken Sorrentino is a comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with layers of eggplant, prosciutto, and melted mozzarella, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner that combines savory, cheesy, and tangy elements in every bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds

• Olive oil for frying

• 8 slices prosciutto

• 8 slices mozzarella cheese

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Lightly salt eggplant slices and let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.

4. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry eggplant slices until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

5. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place chicken breasts on top.

6. Layer each chicken breast with fried eggplant, prosciutto slices, and mozzarella cheese.

7. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrients (estimated per serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal

• Protein: 40 g

• Fat: 25 g

• Carbohydrates: 15 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sodium: 800 mg

Selecting and Preparing the Main Ingredients

The foundation of Chicken Sorrentino is the chicken breasts, which must be cooked perfectly to retain their moisture and tenderness. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts allows for even cooking and easy layering. When seasoned well and combined with the other components, the chicken acts as a blank canvas that absorbs and complements the surrounding flavors.

Eggplant is a traditional ingredient in many Italian dishes, prized for its unique texture and subtle flavor. However, eggplant can sometimes be bitter or soggy if not prepared properly. Salting the eggplant slices before cooking is a crucial step that helps draw out excess moisture and bitterness. This process ensures the eggplant crisps up beautifully when fried in olive oil, providing a pleasant, slightly chewy texture and a golden color that adds visual appeal.

Prosciutto, a cured Italian ham, lends a delicate saltiness and rich umami flavor that elevates the dish. Its thin slices layer elegantly over the eggplant and chicken, imparting savory complexity. The prosciutto also adds a slightly chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy mozzarella.

Mozzarella and Marinara: The Heart of the Dish

Mozzarella cheese is indispensable in this dish. Its mild, milky flavor and exceptional melting quality create a luscious, gooey layer that binds the other ingredients together. As the cheese melts during baking, it forms a silky blanket over the chicken and eggplant, enhancing the overall richness of the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

The marinara sauce provides the perfect acidic counterbalance to the richness of the cheese and prosciutto. A good marinara sauce is key—it should be vibrant and fresh, with balanced notes of tomato sweetness, garlic, and herbs. The sauce’s tanginess cuts through the dense textures and fat, refreshing the palate and making the dish feel light and inviting rather than heavy.

The Cooking Process: Building Layers of Flavor

Preparation begins by seasoning the chicken breasts simply with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. While the chicken is resting, the eggplant slices are salted and allowed to sit to remove bitterness, then fried to a crisp golden brown. This step is essential to creating a texture that stands up well to the layering and baking process.

In the baking dish, a thin layer of marinara sauce is spread as a flavorful base. The chicken breasts are arranged on top, followed by a carefully constructed layering of fried eggplant slices, prosciutto, and generous slices of mozzarella cheese. Pouring the remaining marinara sauce over the top ensures the chicken remains moist and infuses the entire dish with tangy tomato flavor as it bakes.

Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes allows the chicken to cook through while melting the mozzarella to a bubbly, golden perfection. The final result is a visually stunning casserole-like dish with layers of flavor that harmonize beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken Sorrentino is a versatile main course that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Classic Italian accompaniments such as garlic bread or focaccia are excellent choices to mop up the delicious marinara sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the main dish.

Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a nutritious complement and add color to the plate. For a heartier meal, creamy risotto or buttered pasta can also be served alongside, creating a fully satisfying Italian-inspired dinner experience.

Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top before serving add a fragrant, herbaceous note that enhances the presentation and flavor. The basil’s freshness acts as a bright counterpoint to the deep, savory notes of the baked chicken and cheese.

Nutritional Profile and Considerations

Chicken Sorrentino offers a well-rounded nutritional profile. With approximately 450-500 calories per serving, it delivers a substantial amount of protein—around 40 grams—primarily from the chicken and mozzarella. This makes it a filling and satisfying option that supports muscle health and energy levels.

The fat content, largely from the cheese and olive oil used in frying, provides richness and helps with satiety, though it should be consumed in moderation within a balanced diet. Carbohydrates are moderate, mainly coming from the marinara sauce and eggplant, while fiber content from the eggplant aids digestion.

Sodium levels may be elevated due to the prosciutto and seasoning, so it’s advisable to adjust added salt according to dietary needs. Overall, the dish offers a delicious balance of macronutrients that fit well within many eating plans when paired with fresh vegetables or whole grains.

Tips for Success and Variations

To elevate this dish, choose high-quality ingredients: fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes or premium marinara sauce, and authentic Italian prosciutto. Taking the time to salt and properly fry the eggplant will dramatically improve texture and flavor.

For those looking to add a twist, incorporating fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into the marinara sauce adds aromatic complexity. You can also layer in sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for additional flavor and variety.

For a lighter version, baking the eggplant slices instead of frying reduces oil usage while still providing great texture. Alternatively, replacing prosciutto with pancetta or even thinly sliced turkey bacon can offer a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Chicken Sorrentino is a wonderfully satisfying Italian-American dish that delights with its rich layers of flavor and comforting textures. From the crispy, golden eggplant and savory prosciutto to the creamy mozzarella and tangy marinara, every element plays a vital role in creating a harmonious, flavorful meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is approachable for cooks of all skill levels yet impressive enough to serve guests. Adding Chicken Sorrentino to your recipe collection or website provides readers with a delicious, classic dish that embodies the warmth and richness of Italian home cooking.

Its balance of hearty protein, savory ingredients, and bright tomato sauce makes it a timeless recipe that continues to charm and satisfy palates across generations. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or a festive centerpiece, Chicken Sorrentino invites everyone to indulge in the best of Italian-inspired comfort food.