Fried Parmesan Turkey Cutlets

Fried Parmesan Turkey Cutlets are a delicious, crispy dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor. The turkey cutlets are breaded with a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then fried to golden perfection and finished in the oven for a juicy, tender bite. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, serving as a main course with sides like mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the best of both worlds: the crispy crunch of breading and the juicy tenderness of turkey. The Parmesan and Panko crust provides a savory, golden exterior, while the turkey stays moist inside. It’s a simple and satisfying recipe that doesn’t require much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken, using lean turkey cutlets instead.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds turkey cutlets (about 4 cutlets)

• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs

• ⅔ cup parmesan cheese (grated)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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

Directions

Prepare the Breading Station:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a large bowl or plate, mix together the flour, salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Set aside.

3. In a second bowl, beat the egg and water together. Set aside.

4. In a third large bowl or plate, combine the Panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Bread the Turkey Cutlets:

1. Dip each turkey cutlet in the following order:

   • First, coat the cutlet in the flour mixture.

   • Then, dip it in the egg wash.

   • Finally, press it into the Panko and Parmesan mixture, ensuring the breading sticks well on all sides. Set the breaded turkey cutlets aside.

Cook the Turkey Cutlets:

1. In a large cast-iron or heavy skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.

2. Add the breaded turkey cutlets (about two at a time) to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.

Finish Cooking in the Oven:

1. Transfer the browned turkey cutlets to a baking sheet. Continue cooking the remaining cutlets in the skillet.

2. Once all cutlets are browned, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

3. If your cutlets are thin (less than ½ inch), you may be able to finish cooking them entirely on the stove top.

Serve:

1. Serve the fried Parmesan turkey cutlets warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 18 minutes

• Total Time: 28 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture to give the cutlets a spicy kick.

• Cheese Variations: Swap out the Parmesan for another hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, for a different flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or a gluten-free flour blend to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fried Parmesan turkey cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the cutlets in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to get them crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for turkey cutlets in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may need a little longer to cook through.

2. Can I skip the oven step and cook everything on the stovetop?

If the cutlets are thin (less than ½ inch thick), you can cook them entirely on the stovetop. Just make sure they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can bread the turkey cutlets ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This will make the cooking process quicker when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I make this recipe without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, you can use any large, heavy skillet, such as a nonstick or stainless steel pan, instead of a cast iron skillet. Just ensure it heats evenly for the best results.

5. How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure to press the breading firmly into the turkey cutlets, and don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying. Allow space between each cutlet so the breading crisps up without falling off.

6. Can I use other types of oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even butter for frying if you prefer. Olive oil adds a nice flavor but other oils will work just as well.

7. How do I know when the turkey is cooked through?

The turkey is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.

8. Can I serve this with a sauce?

Yes, these fried Parmesan turkey cutlets go wonderfully with a variety of sauces. Try serving them with a marinara sauce, garlic butter, or a simple squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Fried Parmesan Turkey Cutlets are a delicious and satisfying dinner option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With a crispy golden crust and juicy turkey inside, these cutlets are perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

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