Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts

1 ¼ cups panko bread crumbs

¼ cup parmesan cheese grated

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 egg

salt & pepper to taste

⅓ cup vegetable oil

Instructions

Freeze chicken breasts about 20 minutes or so.

Cut chicken breasts in half horizontally and pound to ¼” thickness.

Combine panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese and garlic powder in a small shallow dish.

Whisk egg in a separate bowl. Dip chicken in egg and then in the crumb mixture pressing to adhere.

Preheat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently add chicken and cook 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and chicken reaches 165°F.

Notes:

Preparation Technique: Freezing the chicken breasts before slicing and pounding them helps in achieving an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking and a crispy texture.

Breading Mixture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and garlic powder adds flavor and provides a crunchy coating for the chicken cutlets.

Cooking Method: Pan-frying in vegetable oil yields golden brown and crispy chicken cutlets. The oil should be preheated over medium heat to avoid burning the breading while ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Versatility: The FAQ section addresses common queries about ingredient substitutions, cooking methods, and make-ahead options, offering flexibility for personal preferences and dietary needs.

Alternative Cooking Methods: The recipe suggests baking or air-frying as healthier alternatives to pan-frying, catering to those looking to reduce oil consumption or preferring different cooking techniques.

Pairing Suggestions: The notes include recommendations for side dishes that complement the crispy chicken cutlets, enhancing the overall meal experience with a variety of flavors and textures.

Preparation Tips: Tips such as refrigerating breaded chicken cutlets before cooking and using chicken tenders instead of breasts offer practical advice for streamlining the cooking process and adapting the recipe to individual preferences.

Ingredient Flexibility: The recipe allows for ingredient substitutions, like using different types of breadcrumbs or cheese, empowering cooks to personalize the dish according to taste and ingredient availability.

Storage and Reheating: Information on preparing the cutlets in advance and reheating leftovers ensures that the dish can be enjoyed conveniently without sacrificing taste or texture.

Nutrition Information:

Yields: 4 | Serving Size: 1 cutlet

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of breadcrumbs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs based on your preference.

Can I bake these chicken cutlets instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

What sides pair well with crispy chicken cutlets?

These cutlets complement well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.

Is it necessary to freeze the chicken breasts before preparing this recipe?

Freezing the chicken breasts for about 20 minutes helps in making them firm, making it easier to slice and pound to an even thickness.

It’s not mandatory but aids in achieving uniform cooking.

Can I make the breaded chicken cutlets in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and refrigerate them.

Cook just before serving for the freshest, crispiest results.

Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken tenders for this recipe.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tenders may cook faster than larger breast pieces.

Can I air-fry these chicken cutlets instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air-fry the breaded chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.

What’s the purpose of freezing the chicken breasts before preparing the cutlets?

Freezing the chicken briefly helps in firming it up, making it easier to slice horizontally and pound to an even thickness.

This ensures uniform cooking.

Is it okay to use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

Yes, pre-grated parmesan works well.

However, freshly grated parmesan can enhance the flavor.

Feel free to use whichever you have on hand.

Can I make these cutlets ahead and reheat them?

While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help maintain their crispiness.