Crispy Chicken Cutlets Recipe

These Crispy 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, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings 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 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious and satisfying meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Thin-sliced chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can buy them pre-sliced or slice them yourself.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the breading adhere to the chicken.
• Seasoned salt: Adds flavor to the flour mixture.
• Eggs: Bind the breading ingredients together.
• Water: Thins the egg mixture for easier coating.
• Hot sauce: Adds a subtle kick to the breading.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a light and crispy crust.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the breading.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and cheesy flavor to the breading.
• Light oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as light olive oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil.

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

How to Make Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Breading Station

Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour and seasoned salt, one with whisked eggs, water, and hot sauce, and one with panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture (allowing excess to drip off), and finally in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere. Place the breaded cutlets on a plate or platter as you work.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. You can test the oil by dipping the back of a wooden spoon into it; if bubbles form immediately, the oil is ready. Carefully place the chicken cutlets in the hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed.

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.

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 of 165°F.

How to Serve

These Crispy Chicken Cutlets are delicious with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for this dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy 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 in the air fryer at 400°F for 4 minutes, or in the oven at 400°F for 6 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.

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 Crispy 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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