Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each breast to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender results. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
Arrange three shallow bowls or pie plates in a row. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Working with one piece at a time, dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Place breaded chicken on a clean plate. Repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F). Carefully place 2 chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil if needed.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While frying the second batch, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts in the dish. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, using about ⅓ cup per breast. Top each chicken breast with ½ cup shredded mozzarella and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The chicken should be cooked through with no pink remaining.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti or pasta, spooning extra sauce from the baking dish over the top.