Introduction
When it comes to delightful chicken dishes, breaded chicken cutlets are a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken cutlets are perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering. With a simple combination of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 thin boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
1 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Vegetable oil for frying
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. Season both sides of each chicken cutlet with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare three shallow dishes:
– First dish: Add the all-purpose flour.
– Second dish: Whisk the eggs.
– Third dish: Combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.
3. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Dip the floured cutlet into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Coat the cutlet thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to lightly coat the bottom.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
8. Fry each cutlet for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a serving platter.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken
Season both sides of each chicken cutlet with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Preparing the Dishes
Prepare three shallow dishes:
– First dish: Add the all-purpose flour.
– Second dish: Whisk the eggs.
– Third dish: Combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.
Step 3: Dredging the Chicken
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 4: Egg Coating
Dip the floured cutlet into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 5: Breadcrumb Coating
Coat the cutlet thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 6: Heating the Oil
In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat to lightly coat the bottom.
Step 7: Frying the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
Step 8: Cooking Time
Fry each cutlet for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 9: Serving the Chicken
Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a serving platter.
Step 10: Garnishing
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Oil Temperature
Ensure the oil is adequately heated before adding the chicken to prevent the cutlets from becoming greasy.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken cutlets can be served with a side salad, pasta, or your choice of dipping sauce.
Storage
Leftover chicken cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Seasoning
Ensure to season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper before breading. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Dredging
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, which helps the egg adhere better in the next step, creating a better breading layer.
Egg Coating
Dip the floured chicken cutlet into whisked eggs. This coating binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken, resulting in a crispy crust when cooked.
Breadcrumb Mixture
Combine breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried herbs for added flavor. Press the mixture onto the cutlet to ensure an even coat.
Frying
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown, ensuring each side cooks evenly and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving
Transfer the cooked cutlets to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley for an appealing presentation.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but they may require a longer cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil is ideal for frying due to its high smoke point, but you can also use canola or peanut oil.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to achieve a similar result.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
What can I serve with the chicken cutlets?
These chicken cutlets pair well with pasta, salads, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious chicken cutlet recipe is a fantastic way to prepare a crispy, golden meal that can be served on its own or as a part of a larger dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Parmesan
Top the cooked chicken cutlets with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Chicken Alfredo
Serve the breaded chicken cutlets over a bed of fettuccine pasta and drizzle with creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich, satisfying meal.
Chicken Sandwiches
Use the cooked chicken cutlets as the main ingredient in a sandwich, adding your choice of lettuce, tomato, and condiments for a hearty lunch option.
Chicken Salad
Dice the fried chicken cutlets and mix them with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite salad dressing for a tasty and filling salad.
Asian Chicken Stir-Fry
Slice the cooked chicken cutlets and toss them into a stir-fry with mixed vegetables and teriyaki sauce for a flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
Chicken Tacos
Shred the cooked cutlets and serve them in taco shells with toppings like avocado, salsa, and cheese for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
