Chicken Cutlets

Chicken cutlets are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simplicity and flavor in every crispy bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a gathering, these delicious cutlets can be served with a variety of sides or even tucked into a sandwich. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. Let’s dive into the process of making the best chicken cutlets you’ve ever tasted!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This chicken cutlet recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The combination of Parmesan cheese, spices, and the right cooking technique ensures that your cutlets will come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Plus, the ingredients are easily accessible, making this dish one you can confidently recreate in your kitchen any day of the week.

Gather These Ingredients

To make your chicken cutlets, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 6 pieces from 2 breasts)
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture, see note 1)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more as needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Gear Checklist

Before you start, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Meat mallet or rolling pin – For pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
• Large skillet – To cook the cutlets evenly.
• Three shallow dishes – For breading the chicken.
• Tongs – For flipping the cutlets without damaging the coating.
• Paper towels – For draining excess oil after cooking.

Make Chicken Cutlets: A Simple Method

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these easy steps to make your chicken cutlets.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing each piece of chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

In one shallow dish, add the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In another dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder. The third dish will remain empty for the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres well.

Step 4: Cook the Cutlets

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to work in batches. If so, add more oil as needed when cooking the next batch.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Season with additional salt if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or incorporate them into a delicious Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich for a tasty meal.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions, here are some swaps to make this recipe work for you:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. It will provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to coat the chicken.

Don’t Do This

To ensure the best results, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cooking too many cutlets at once can lower the temperature of the oil, leading to soggy cutlets instead of crispy ones.
• Don’t skip the pounding step. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
• Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the cutlets to brown fully before flipping for optimal texture.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your chicken cutlets fresh, follow these tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked cutlets. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. They can be reheated from frozen in the oven at 375°F until heated through.

Popular Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to your cutlets. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.

Can I bake these cutlets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

What can I serve with chicken cutlets?

Chicken cutlets pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You can even slice them and serve them on top of pasta or in a sandwich.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed making chicken cutlets, you might also love these recipes:

• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich

Time to Try It

Now that you have the perfect chicken cutlet recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients and follow the steps to create a dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. The crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior of these chicken cutlets will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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