Can I pound the chicken myself instead of buying thin cutlets?
Yes. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet before pan-searing.
Why does the recipe use a broiler at the end?
The broiler melts the cheese and crisps the breadcrumb topping quickly without overcooking the chicken beneath, creating better texture than stovetop finishing.
Can I make this ahead and reheat?
Yes. Assemble and broil, then cool completely and refrigerate up to 2 days. Reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through, about 12–15 minutes.
What's the best marinara sauce to use?
Any good-quality jarred marinara works; choose one with minimal added sugar and no unusual additives. Adjust salt to taste before simmering.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
Pan-seared cutlets should reach 165°F at the thickest point. After simmering in sauce for 5–7 minutes, they are fully cooked and safe to eat.