Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Golden and crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside — these pan-fried chicken cutlets are packed with flavor and perfect for serving with pasta, rice, salad, or your favorite sides. Easy to prepare and universally loved, this recipe is a staple for quick weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly crispy exterior with a juicy, tender inside.
• Quick and easy — ready in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile enough to pair with almost any side dish.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
• Family-friendly and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total, 8 oz each)
• 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs + 1 tablespoon water
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or Italian breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Extra light olive oil (or neutral oil like canola or avocado) for frying
• Lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and coarse salt, for serving

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 8 thin cutlets. Place between plastic wrap or parchment and pound to ¼-inch thickness. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station: In three shallow bowls:
   • Place flour in the first.
   • Whisk eggs and water in the second.
   • Combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt in the third.
3. Bread the Cutlets: Dredge each cutlet in flour, shake off excess. Dip in egg wash, then coat in breadcrumb mixture. Press to adhere. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to help the coating set.
4. Pan-Fry: In a large skillet, heat oil to 350–375°F. Add cutlets in batches, frying for about 2 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 385 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
• Herb-Crusted: Use fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil in the breadcrumb mixture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Cheesy Crust: Increase Parmesan for extra cheesy flavor.
• Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store cooled chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness. You can also freeze the breaded but uncooked cutlets for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

How do I keep the cutlets crispy?

Drain on a wire rack, not paper towels, and avoid stacking them.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes. Bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like canola, avocado, or light olive oil.

Can I prep these in advance?

Yes, bread the cutlets and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before frying.

Are panko and Italian breadcrumbs interchangeable?

Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture.

Do I need to pound the chicken?

Yes, for even cooking and tender texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze cooked cutlets for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer.

What sides go well with crispy chicken cutlets?

Try pasta, mashed potatoes, salad, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer — the internal temp should be 165°F.

Conclusion

Crispy chicken cutlets are the perfect go-to meal for any night of the week. With their golden crust and juicy interior, they’re as versatile as they are delicious. Whether served with pasta, salad, or sandwiches, these cutlets will become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

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