Crispy Chicken Cutlets are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These chicken cutlets are tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, thanks to a flavorful breadcrumb coating. They’re easy to make and great for serving with pasta, salad, or in a sandwich. This recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on both sides.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Cutlets
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the crispy chicken cutlets warm with your favorite sides, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry spots.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken cutlets in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Cutlets: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
- Herbed Chicken Cutlets: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Chicken Cutlets: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Increase the Parmesan cheese to 3/4 cup for an extra cheesy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Bake the Chicken Cutlets Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken cutlets. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Cutlets?
Store any leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
4. What Can I Serve with Crispy Chicken Cutlets?
These chicken cutlets pair well with a variety of sides, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also make a great addition to sandwiches or wraps.
Crispy Chicken Cutlets are a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust and juicy, tender chicken, these cutlets are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and flavor of homemade crispy chicken cutlets!
