Italian Breaded Chicken Cutlets are a classic and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. These crispy, golden-brown cutlets are coated with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, making them deliciously crunchy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. Serve them with pasta, salad, or as a sandwich for a satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
2 tbsp milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets. If needed, pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, mix flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In another dish, whisk eggs with milk. In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry the Cutlets: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g

Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Italian Breaded Chicken Cutlets!

The Allure of Breaded Chicken Cutlets

Breaded chicken cutlets are an iconic dish that has become a staple in many cuisines, particularly Italian cooking. The magic behind this dish lies in its simple yet satisfying combination of a seasoned flour coating, a dip in egg wash, and the perfect layer of crispy breadcrumbs. This method of breading, which originated in Italy, was traditionally used for veal but has since been adapted to a variety of meats. Chicken, being widely available and affordable, is a perfect substitute and results in a universally appealing dish.

These cutlets are a fan favorite due to their crispy exterior, which contrasts perfectly with the juicy, tender meat inside. Whether enjoyed on their own, served with pasta, or sandwiched between a bun with fresh veggies, Italian breaded chicken cutlets bring comforting, delicious flavors to the table.

Why Choose Italian Breaded Chicken Cutlets?

What makes Italian breaded chicken cutlets particularly special is the seasoning blend used in the breading. A mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt brings out the natural flavors of the chicken while adding depth and richness. The addition of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture enhances the dish with a savory, umami flavor that complements the tender chicken perfectly.

Another great aspect of this dish is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, and spices—you can create a dish that feels indulgent without requiring a lot of prep time or complicated steps. The breading method ensures that the chicken remains juicy inside while achieving a crisp and flavorful exterior, making every bite enjoyable.

A Versatile Dish for Any Meal

Italian breaded chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile, which is part of what makes them such a popular choice. They can be served in many different ways to suit a variety of tastes and occasions. Some of the most common serving suggestions include:

With Pasta: Serve the crispy chicken cutlets alongside your favorite pasta dishes like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, and drizzle with marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce. The crunchy cutlets contrast beautifully with the soft pasta, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
As a Sandwich: Place the cutlets in a sandwich bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a quick and delicious meal. Add a slice of cheese for extra indulgence and enjoy a crispy chicken sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
On a Salad: For a lighter, healthier option, top a bed of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach with sliced chicken cutlets, adding your favorite dressing. The crispy chicken provides protein and flavor, transforming a simple salad into a satisfying meal.
On Its Own: Sometimes, there’s nothing better than enjoying the cutlets on their own with a squeeze of fresh lemon. The combination of crispy breading and tender chicken is so flavorful that it’s perfect for enjoying without anything else.

Frying the Cutlets: Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown

The method of frying these cutlets is key to achieving the crispy exterior and tender interior that makes them so delicious. Using a large skillet allows the chicken to cook evenly while ensuring that the breading turns golden brown. The oil needs to be heated to medium heat so that the cutlets cook through without burning the exterior. As the chicken fries, it forms a crispy crust that locks in the juiciness of the meat, making each bite irresistible.

It’s important to monitor the temperature of the oil during the cooking process, as too high of a heat could cause the breading to burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Frying the cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side ensures that they cook through evenly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which is the safe temperature for poultry. The result is a satisfying crunch with every bite, accompanied by a perfectly cooked piece of chicken.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

For the best results, it’s essential to use fresh ingredients. The chicken should be boneless and skinless for easy preparation and a quick cook time. The seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt—are simple but make a big impact on the flavor of the breading. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness to the breading, which complements the delicate flavor of the chicken.

Another key ingredient is the fresh lemon wedges, which can be served alongside the cutlets for an added burst of flavor. The tartness of lemon works wonderfully with the richness of the fried chicken, creating a balanced and refreshing contrast.

Healthier Option Without Compromising Flavor

While fried foods are often seen as indulgent, this recipe offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. The use of lean ground chicken and a minimal amount of oil for frying reduces the overall fat content while still delivering the crispy, golden exterior that people love. The chicken itself remains juicy and tender, making this recipe a great option for those who want a flavorful meal without the added calories of fatty cuts of meat.

By pairing the cutlets with vegetables, salads, or pasta, you can balance the meal and make it even healthier, offering both flavor and nutrition in one dish.

Conclusion: A Dish for Every Occasion

In conclusion, Italian breaded chicken cutlets are a delightful and versatile dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether served as a main course with pasta, in a sandwich, or on top of a salad, these crispy, golden cutlets bring comfort and flavor to any meal. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them accessible

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