Chicken Cutlet Recipe

There’s something magical about the perfect chicken cutlet. Whether it’s served crispy and golden with a simple salad or smothered in marinara sauce and mozzarella, this dish has a way of making everyone at the table smile. Imagine biting into a piece of perfectly seasoned, lightly breaded chicken that’s tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside. It’s a dish that’s universally loved, by kids to adults, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this chicken cutlet recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

Today, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the best chicken cutlet recipes, with plenty of variations and tips to customize your dish just the way you like it.

Recipe Card for Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 380 per serving

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or Panko)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil for frying
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin, even cutlets. You can also pound the chicken using a meat mallet to get an even thickness.
2. Set up your breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
3. Bread the chicken: Coat each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, before pressing the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure the chicken is fully coated.
4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
5. Fry the cutlets: Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty flavor boost.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 135mg

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cutlet Recipe

• Quick and easy: This chicken cutlet recipe is simple to prepare and only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute meal.
• Versatile: These chicken cutlets are extremely versatile. You can serve them as-is, turn them into chicken parmesan, or even make chicken sandwiches.
• Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, everyone loves a crispy, juicy chicken cutlet.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to your liking—whether you like it spicy, herb-infused, or with a cheesy twist, this recipe can be easily adapted.
• Meal prep-friendly: These cutlets can be made ahead and reheated, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Chicken breasts: For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. You can also use boneless thighs for a juicier cut or opt for thin chicken cutlets if you’re short on prep time.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will give you a crispier coating, while Italian-style breadcrumbs add extra flavor with herbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
• Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds richness and depth to the breading, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika are traditional, but feel free to add Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, or even fresh herbs to make the flavor pop.
• Olive oil: Olive oil provides great flavor for frying, but vegetable or canola oil are fine alternatives.

How to Make Chicken Cutlet (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by slicing each chicken breast into two thinner pieces. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures they cooks uniformly.
2. Bread the chicken: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and seasonings. Coat each cutlet in flour first, then the egg, then the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Fry the cutlets: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the cutlets in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
4. Drain and serve: Once fried, place the cutlets on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Expert Tips for Success

• Pound the chicken evenly: Ensuring the chicken cutlets are an even thickness prevents them from drying out while cooking and ensures they cook evenly.
• Use fresh oil: Make sure the oil is fresh and hot enough for frying to avoid greasy cutlets.
• Let the cutlets rest: After frying, let the chicken cutlets rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite every time.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Seasoning the breadcrumb mixture is key to flavorful cutlets. You can also season the flour for an extra boost of flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipes: For a healthier version, bake the chicken cutlets in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe: Add some oregano, basil, and grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for an Italian twist. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or top with mozzarella and bake for a delicious Chicken Parmesan.
• Spicy Chicken Cutlets: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick. Pair it with a refreshing yogurt dip on the side to complement the flavors.
• Thin Chicken Cutlet Recipes: If you prefer thinner cutlets, you can slice the chicken breasts horizontally and pound them to 1/4 inch thickness for a crispier, quicker-cooking version.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place the cooled cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet. After freezing, move them into a freezer-safe bag where they can be stored for up to three months. Reheating: For the best results, reheat the cutlets in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. It’s best to avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the breading lose its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with these crispy chicken cutlets? Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Salads: A simple arugula or Caesar salad pairs beautifully with chicken cutlets. The crisp greens and zesty dressing balance out the rich, crunchy cutlet.
• Pasta: Serve your chicken cutlets over a plate of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce for a classic Italian meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty side, serve chicken cutlets with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli makes for a balanced and colorful plate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make chicken cutlets ahead of time?

A: Yes, chicken cutlets can be made ahead of time. Fry them as usual, then store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F before serving.

Q: Is it possible to bake chicken cutlets instead of frying them?

A: Absolutely! To bake, place the breaded chicken cutlets on a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I keep chicken cutlets crispy?

A: After frying, place the chicken cutlets on a wire rack instead of directly on paper towels. This allows air to circulate the cutlets, keeping them crispy.

Q: Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs?

A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs are a great alternative to breasts.

Related Recipes

If you loved this chicken cutlet recipe, here are some other recipes you might enjoy:

• Chicken Alfredo Recipe: Indulge in creamy perfection with this easy Chicken Alfredo recipe—rich, savory, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
• Chicken Brine Recipe: Unlock juicy, flavorful chicken every time with this quick and simple brine recipe. Perfect for any cooking method!

This chicken cutlet recipe is simple, delicious, and versatile, making it the perfect go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, these cutlets won’t disappoint. With a crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior, these chicken cutlets are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy the endless possibilities of this classic dish!