Easy Chicken Cutlets Recipe

These Easy Chicken Cutlets are a classic and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, flavorful breading and fried to golden perfection. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers restaurant-quality cutlets that are perfect for serving with your favorite sides or using in sandwiches and wraps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a crispy and flavorful coating that elevates the chicken to a whole new level.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve these chicken cutlets with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. They’re also great for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
• Quick and Convenient: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious and satisfying meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: Seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken and flour mixture.
• Panko Italian breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a light and crispy crust.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and cheesy flavor to the breading.
• Eggs: Bind the breading ingredients together.
• Flour: Helps the breading adhere to the chicken.
• Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken cutlets.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Easy Chicken Cutlets

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise in half to make them thinner. Place the chicken cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a rolling pin or a heavy object to pound them to an even thickness. Cut the flattened chicken breasts into cutlet-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with the Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, one with the whisked eggs, and one with the flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Dip each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Cook the chicken cutlets in batches for a few minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite sides or use in sandwiches and wraps.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use thin-sliced chicken breasts: Thin-sliced chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly.
• Pat the chicken dry: Patting the chicken dry helps the breading adhere better and ensures a crispy crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Adjust the heat: If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

How to Serve

These Easy Chicken Cutlets are delicious with a variety of sides and can be used in many dishes:

• Pasta: Serve the chicken cutlets with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Salad: Add the chicken cutlets to your favorite salad for a protein boost.
• Sandwiches: Use the chicken cutlets to make delicious chicken parmesan sandwiches or wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Chicken Cutlets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe.

2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs? Yes, you can! However, panko breadcrumbs will give the chicken cutlets a lighter and crispier crust.

3. Can I bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying them? Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the chicken cutlets for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the breading? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as paprika, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Easy Chicken Cutlets Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile way to enjoy a classic dish. With its easy preparation, crispy coating, and endless serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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