Recipe: Oven-Fried Basil Parmesan Chicken (stuffed with basil, bacon, and mozzarella) (with freeze ahead instructions)

Oven-Fried Basil Parmesan Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
8 basil sprigs
4 slices fresh mozzarella
4 slices cooked pancetta or bacon
2 egg whites
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
lemon wedges
CRUMB MIXTURE:
1 cup fine semolina or Italian bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts, finely chopped (optional)

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Set a rack on a sheet pan and spray it with olive oil spray.

Cut through the thick side of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Into each pocket press two basil sprigs, a slice of mozzarella and a slice of pancetta or bacon (folded in half to fit if necessary).

In a medium bowl, stir together the crumb mixture.

In another bowl, lightly beat egg whites. Add garlic, salt and pepper.

Dip stuffed chicken breasts into egg white mixture; then press into crumb mixture, coating thoroughly. (At this point, the breasts may be placed on a cookie tray and frozen until almost solid; wrap in aluminum foil to store.)

Set the chicken on the rack; bake for 25 minutes until the crumbs are golden brown and chicken is cooked all the way through.

Serve immediately, accompanied with fresh lemon wedges.

Makes 4 servings
Source: National Chicken Council