Table of Contents
Crispy Homemade Chicken Cutlets Cooling on a Wire Rack
Introduction
What Are Chicken Cutlets?
Chicken cutlets are thin slices of chicken breast pounded flat to ensure even cooking. This method helps the chicken cook quickly and allows for a deliciously crispy exterior when breaded and fried. To prepare this dish, start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This technique makes the chicken tender and perfect for various recipes, including our easy chicken cutlets recipe.
Why This Chicken Cutlet Recipe is a Must-Try
This chicken cutlet recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The preparation involves basic steps that lead to a flavorful and satisfying meal. Additionally, making this recipe at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a healthier and tastier result than many store-bought options. The crispy, golden-brown exterior and the juicy interior make these chicken cutlets a hit for kids and adults alike. This recipe provides a quick solution for a delicious meal without compromising taste or quality.
If you enjoy making easy and delicious comfort food, check out our Chicken and Gravy Recipe for another tasty dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best chicken cutlets, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavour.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten for dredging.
- Flour: 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour for dredging.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil for frying.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning.
Ingredient Tips for the Best Flavor
Focus on using fresh and high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavour and texture in your recipe. Here’s how:
- Breadcrumbs: Opt for fresh or homemade breadcrumbs if possible. They have a better texture and flavour compared to store-bought options. If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, savoury flavour. You can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano if needed.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for frying to enhance the flavour. You can use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free Options: Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free recipe. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free.
Preparing the Chicken
To start with your chicken cutlets recipe, you must prepare the chicken breasts properly. Begin by placing each boneless, skinless chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the cutlets cook evenly and remain tender. If you’re looking for uniform thickness, use a kitchen pounder with a flat side and apply even pressure.
Setting Up Your Breading Station
Creating the perfect breading mixture is crucial for delicious chicken cutlets. Start by setting up three separate shallow dishes:
- Flour: Place 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in the first dish. This will help the egg mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Eggs: In the second dish, beat 2 large eggs until well combined. This will act as the binder for the breadcrumbs.
- Breadcrumbs: Mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in the third dish. This mixture provides a crispy coating.
You can season the breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs for an extra flavour.
Breading the Chicken Cutlets
Once your breading station is set, it’s time to coat the chicken cutlets. Start by dredging each chicken piece in the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour before dipping the chicken into the beaten eggs. Allow any excess egg to drip off before transferring the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a thorough coating. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process.
Frying the Chicken Cutlets
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to achieve a crisp exterior and juicy interior. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet. Cook each cutlet for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the breading is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy cutlets. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Pro Tips for Achieving the Crispiest Coating
How to Get the Breading to Stick Perfectly
Ensure the breading adheres well to the chicken cutlets and that the chicken is patted dry before breading. Excess moisture can cause the breading to become soggy. Also, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken helps create a better coating. For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Preventing Oiliness in Your Chicken Cutlets
To avoid oiliness:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the meat. The coating can absorb too much oil if the oil isn’t hot enough.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is around 350°F for optimal frying.
Maintaining Crispiness After Cooking
To keep your chicken cutlets crispy after cooking, place them on a wire rack rather than on a paper towel. A wire rack allows air to circulate the cutlets, preventing them from becoming soggy. If you need to store them, keep the cutlets in an airtight container and reheat them in an oven to retain their crispiness. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the breading lose its crunch.
Delicious Variations
Italian Breaded Chicken Cutlets
To give your dish an Italian twist:
- Try making Italian breaded chicken cutlets.
- Mix dried Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme into your breadcrumb mixture.
- For added flavour, include a bit of garlic powder and onion powder.
Combining these Italian spices creates a savoury, aromatic coating that pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This variation enhances the flavour and adds a delightful crunch, making your chicken cutlets even more irresistible.
Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
For a tangy and rich twist, try a lemon butter sauce. After frying, melt butter in the same skillet, add freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Pour the sauce over the cooked meat for a zesty flavour and silky texture. Garnish with fresh parsley for extra freshness.
Baked Chicken Cutlets for a Healthier Option
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to frying, try baked chicken cutlets. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack to allow air circulation. Lightly spray the cutlets with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cutlets are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking provides a crispy texture without the extra fat from frying, making it a great choice for a lighter meal.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Cutlets
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cutlets
Chicken cutlets are versatile and can be paired with various sides and sauces. Serve them with mashed potatoes or a simple side salad for a classic approach. You can also complement your dish with sautéed vegetables or a fresh pasta salad. For sauces, consider marinara, ranch, or a creamy garlic sauce. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can also enhance the flavour of the chicken cutlets, making the meal more enjoyable and flavorful.
Creating a Balanced Meal with Chicken Cutlets
To create a balanced meal with your chicken cutlets:
- Combine them with various vegetables and whole grains.
- Serve the cutlets alongside steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a mixed vegetable stir-fry.
- For gOptbrown rice, quinoa, or a who-grain pilaf.
This grain combination provides a well-rounded meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Adding a side of leafy greens or a colourful salad ensures you get a good mix of vitamins and minerals, making your meal wholesome and balanced.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Cutlets
Storing Chicken Cutlets to Keep Them Fresh
To keep it fresh:
- Allow them to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. You can freeze the cutlets for longer storage by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Frozen chicken cutlets can be stored for up to 3 months. Proper storage helps maintain the quality and flavour of your chicken cutlets until you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Reheating Chicken Cutlets While Keeping Them Crispy
Use an oven or an air fryer to reheat chicken cutlets while:
- They are using their crispiness.
- Reheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the cutlets on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Eat for 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and the coating is crispy. Preheat an air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook the cutlets for 5-7 minutes.
Void reheating in the microwave, as it can make the breading soggy.
Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian seasoned
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil for frying
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps ensure even cooking and tender results.
Setting Up Your Breading Station
- Set up a breading station by placing three shallow dishes side by side.
- In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour.
- In the second dish, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Breading the Chicken Cutlets
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Frying the Chicken Cutlets
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
- Fry the chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the cutlets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor, Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cutlets before serving for a bright, zesty touch.
- Make Ahead: Bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
- Healthier Option: For a lighter version, consider baking the chicken cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Keep Chicken Cutlets from Becoming Dry?
To keep chicken cutlets from becoming dry, ensure they are not overcooked. Using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) helps prevent overcooking. Additionally, brining the chicken breasts before breading can help retain moisture. For even juicier cutlets, consider using a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, which ensures uniform cooking.
Can You Bake Chicken Cutlets Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake chicken cutlets instead of frying them. Baking is a healthier option that reduces the amount of fat and calories. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to bake it and arrange the breaded cutlets on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baked chicken cutlets can be just as crispy as fried when prepared correctly.
What are the Best Sauces to Serve with Chicken Cutlets?
Popular sauces to serve with chicken cutlets include marinara sauce, creamy garlic sauce, and lemon butter sauce. Try serving the cutlets with a zesty BBQ sauce or honey mustard for a tangy twist. You can pair them with fresh salsa or a simple vinaigrette for added flavour. The right sauce can complement the crispy cutlets and enhance the dining experience.
Conclusion: Why This Chicken Cutlet Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
Final Thoughts on Making Perfect Chicken Cutlets
This chicken cutlet recipe is designed to be both delicious and versatile. Its simple preparation and crispy coating make it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a special meal. The variations and serving suggestions offer many options for different tastes and dietary needs. Following the tips for storing and reheating, you can enjoy these chicken cutlets at their best, even as leftovers.
Share Your Experience and Get Creative!
We’d love to hear how your chicken cutlets turn out! Try the recipe and let us know your favourite variations and serving suggestions. Share your experiences and photos with us, and feel free to get creative with your twists on this classic dish. Your feedback and creativity can inspire others to try new recipes and enjoy cooking at home.