Description
Golden, crispy chicken cutlets with a juicy center and perfect crunch! Easy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for dinners, sandwiches, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin cutlets)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ cup oil (vegetable, canola, or light olive oil for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Prepare Chicken: Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Pound gently to even thickness.
Season: Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Set Up Breading Station:
Bowl 1: Flour
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and seasonings
Coat Chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, then coat evenly in breadcrumbs. Press firmly so crumbs stick.
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high until hot (a breadcrumb should sizzle immediately).
Fry Cutlets: Cook each cutlet 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain and Serve: Transfer to paper towels, squeeze lemon juice over top, and serve hot with sides or salad.
Notes
- For Extra Crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs and make sure oil is hot before frying.
- Even Cooking: Pound chicken evenly to avoid thick or undercooked spots.
- Healthier Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes instead of frying.
- Flavor Boost: Add fresh herbs or Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix.
- Reheating Tip: Use an oven or air fryer to re-crisp — avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes