Ep. 5 of the Summer Sandwich Series: Vodka Chicken Parm Ingredients: Chicken Cutlets: * 2 large chicken breasts * 2-3 eggs * 1-2 tbsp milk * 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs * 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan * 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley * 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) * Salt and black pepper * Olive oil + neutral oil for frying Sandwich Build: * 2 Italian rolls, ciabatta rolls, or semolina rolls * Prepared vodka sauce * 4–6 oz low-moisture mozzarella * 2–3 oz provolone (optional, but recommended) * Freshly grated Parmesan Crispy Fried Basil: * 10–15 fresh basil leaves * 1–2 tbsp olive oil * Flaky salt Arugula Topping: * 1 cup arugula * 1½ tsp olive oil * Squeeze of fresh lemon juice * Fresh cracked black pepper * Optional: shaved Parmesan Instructions: 1. Prepare the Chicken: * Slice the chicken breast horizontally into 2 thin cutlets. * Pound to about ¼–½ inch thick. * Season both sides with salt and pepper. Set up your breading stations: * Bowl 1: Eggs and milk, whisked together * Bowl 2: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley Bread the chicken: * Dip into the egg mixture. * Coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. 2. Cook the Chicken: * Heat a shallow layer of olive oil and neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. * Fry the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). * Transfer to a wire rack to keep the breading crispy. 3. Make the Crispy Fried Basil: * Pat the basil leaves completely dry. * Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. * Fry the basil leaves for 10–20 seconds until crisp. * Remove to a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with flaky salt. 4. Make the Arugula Topping: In a bowl, combine: * Arugula * Olive oil * Squeeze of fresh lemon juice * Fresh cracked black pepper *Toss just before assembling the sandwiches.* 5. Build the Sandwiches: * Split the rolls and brush the inside with garlic butter or olive oil. * Toast until lightly golden. * Spread a layer of your prepared vodka sauce on the bottom bun. * Add the crispy chicken cutlet. * Add another layer of sauce. * Top with mozzarella and provolone. * Broil until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. * Top with the crispy fried basil. * Finish with the dressed arugula. * Close the sandwich and serve immediately. #foodtiktok #sandwich #chickencutlets #summerrecipes #chickenparm - @jake_spinek