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Looking to elevate your dinner game? Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. This dish combines tender chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust that your whole family will love. In this post, Iβll share simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting this meal. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish theyβll rave about long after the last bite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The combination of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates an irresistibly crunchy coating that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Dish: These chicken cutlets can be served with a variety of sides, from salads to pasta, or even used in sandwiches for a delicious lunch.
- Family Favorite: With its delightful crunch and cheesy flavor, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
To make Parmesan crusted chicken cutlets, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish juicy and flavorful. Hereβs what you need:
β 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
β 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
β 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
β 2 large eggs
β 1 teaspoon garlic powder
β 1 teaspoon onion powder
β 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano)
β Salt and pepper to taste
β Olive oil for frying
β Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to form a delicious crust and tender chicken. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor. The breadcrumbs help create a nice crunch. The spices bring warmth and depth, making every bite a delight.
You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you want to switch things up, try different herbs or spices. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to add your twist!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Setting Up the Breading Station
To make the best Parmesan crusted chicken cutlets, you need a good breading station. Start with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. This adds a nice base for the chicken. In the second dish, beat two large eggs. This will help the breading stick. In the third dish, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. This mixture creates a flavorful crust.
Preparing the Chicken Breasts
Next, take your four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about 1/2-inch thick. This step is key for even cooking and tenderness. Make sure they are all about the same thickness. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Coating the Chicken
Now itβs time to coat the chicken. Start by dredging each chicken breast in the flour. Make sure to cover both sides lightly. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the egg. After that, press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Cover both sides well for a crispy crust. The mixture will stick nicely because of the egg. You are now ready to fry!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving a Crispy Crust
To get that perfect crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. They make a big difference. Mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. This adds flavor and crunch. Press the chicken firmly into the mixture. This helps it stick well.
Ensuring Even Cooking
Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. If they are uneven, some parts may cook too fast. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin for this step. It is key for juicy cutlets.
Ideal Oil Temperature for Frying
Heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want about 1/4 inch of oil in the pan. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread. If it sizzles right away, itβs ready. Cook the cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side. This ensures a golden brown color and keeps them juicy. Check the internal temperature. It should reach 165Β°F.
Pro Tips
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a light and crispy crust that elevates the dish.
- Rest the Chicken: After frying, let the chicken cutlets rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender cutlet.
- Check Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A temperature of 350Β°F is ideal for achieving a golden crust without absorbing too much oil.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the breadcrumb mixture by adding your favorite spices or herbs. This will give your chicken cutlets a unique flavor profile.

Variations
Oven-Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
You can make this dish in the oven for a healthier twist. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F. Prepare the chicken as usual, then place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or brush them lightly with olive oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. This method gives you a crispy crust without frying.
Flavorful Add-ins
Want to spice things up? Add lemon zest for a bright flavor. It gives a fresh taste that pairs well with chicken. You can also mix in chili flakes for a bit of heat. Just a pinch can elevate your dish without overwhelming it. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices, too.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Use cornstarch instead of flour for coating. These changes will keep the dish crispy and tasty. You wonβt miss the gluten at all!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After cooking, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Store the chicken cutlets in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for up to three days. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture. This helps keep the chicken crispy.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some cutlets for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each cutlet in plastic wrap tightly. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust crispy. Instead, place the cutlets in a preheated oven at 350Β°F. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil to keep them crispy.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165Β°F. You can also cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. If you see any pink, cook it a bit longer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time. Bread the chicken cutlets and store them in the fridge for a few hours. This helps the breading stick better. You can also freeze the breaded cutlets for later. Just remember to thaw them before cooking.
What to serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets?
These cutlets pair well with many sides. Try serving them with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. Mashed potatoes or pasta also make great choices. Donβt forget a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. Consider a light sauce for a tasty finish too.
You learned how to make crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken cutlets. We walked through the ingredients, from chicken breasts to tasty seasonings. Then, I shared the step-by-step process, so you can coat and fry them perfectly.
I also gave you tips for a crunchy crust and even cooking. You can try fun variations like oven-baked options or gluten-free swaps.
Now, youβre ready to impress with this delicious dish. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful mea
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Cutlets
Crispy and flavorful chicken cutlets coated in Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- for frying amount olive oil
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Begin by setting up your breading station. In one shallow dish, combine the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, coating both sides lightly. Shake off any excess.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coat.
Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides thoroughly for a crispy crust.
In a large skillet, heat 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken cutlets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165Β°F).
Once cooked, place the cutlets on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serve with a side salad or pasta for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, cutlets, dinner, fried, Parmesan
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