These crispy fried chicken cutlets are a golden perfection, with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a juicy, tender interior. The breadcrumb coating adds extra flavor and texture, making each bite an absolute delight.
Whether you serve them with a tangy dipping sauce or alongside mashed potatoes and veggies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple yet indulgent, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
- Prepare your breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, followed by the eggs, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken cutlets in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken cutlets from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Fried Chicken Cutlets: A Crispy Delight for Dinner
When you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than crispy fried chicken cutlets. This recipe is a family favorite for good reason: it’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. With a simple yet flavorful breadcrumb coating and a touch of Parmesan cheese, these chicken cutlets are a guaranteed hit on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy & Juicy – The golden breadcrumb coating creates a satisfying crunch while keeping the chicken inside tender and juicy.
- Quick & Easy – This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable – Feel free to get creative with the seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture or try baking the chicken instead of frying for a healthier version.
- Versatile – Serve these crispy chicken cutlets with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these crispy fried chicken cutlets, you will need a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s the list:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 large eggs (for dipping)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory, rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a touch of color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up a breading station by placing three shallow bowls or plates on your countertop. In the first, add the flour; in the second, beat the eggs; and in the third, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will make it easy to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently on the breadcrumbs to ensure they stick well, creating a thick coating.
Step 3: Fry the Cutlets
Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles right away, it’s time to fry. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the hot oil, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each cutlet cooks evenly.
Step 4: Drain & Serve
Once the chicken cutlets are golden and crispy, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a delicious salad or side dish.
Tips for Success
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide an extra-crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs may lack. They create a lighter, crunchier coating that’s perfect for fried chicken cutlets.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying. This helps the juices redistribute, making the cutlets even more tender.
- Check Internal Temperature: For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Customize the Coating: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Serving Suggestions:
While these fried chicken cutlets are delicious on their own, they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a classic Caesar salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or a light cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
If you’re in the mood for a different flavor profile, you can also add some spicy mayo or sriracha sauce for an extra kick, or even try a tangy BBQ sauce to dip the cutlets in.
Healthier Option:
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying them. Simply place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. This method will give you crispy cutlets with less oil, while still maintaining a great flavor.
Meal Prep Tip:
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can make the fried chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop to get them crispy again. They make a great addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a protein-packed snack.
Conclusion:
These crispy fried chicken cutlets are a must-try if you’re craving a simple yet satisfying meal. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and tender chicken makes for a dish everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or prepping for meals ahead of time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s crispy, savory, and full of flavor. You’ll never go back to store-bought fried chicken once you experience how easy and tasty these homemade cutlets can be!