Name: Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total, 8 oz each); 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, divided; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, plus 1 Tbsp water; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs or Italian breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Extra light olive oil, or a neutral oil like canola or avocado, for frying; Lemon wedges, for serving; Chopped parsley, for garnish; Coarse salt, for finishing

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 76 reviews

If there’s one dish that never fails to delight with its perfect mix of crunch and tender juiciness, it’s the Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe. This classic comfort food combines thinly pounded chicken breasts coated in a flavorful, golden crust that practically sings with every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, this recipe is your go-to for an irresistibly crispy, delightfully seasoned chicken cutlet that pairs well with endless sides and garnishes. Trust me, once you try these cutlets, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw chicken pieces on a white plate with a blue rim placed to the right side on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, there are small ceramic bowls with different ingredients: a wooden bowl with salt, a green bowl with pepper, a yellow measuring cup filled with grated cheese, a small red bowl with a yellow spice, and a yellow bowl with dried herbs. Near these bowls, there are two brown eggs, a white measuring cup with flour, and a white bowl filled with breadcrumbs arranged neatly on the white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that are easy to find but essential for that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a special role in creating the crispy, savory crust and juicy interior you’ll fall in love with.

4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total, 8 oz each): Pounded thin for quick cooking and tender bites.
1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, divided: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and seasons the breading perfectly.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth to the seasoning.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the initial layer that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick.
2 large eggs, plus 1 Tbsp water: Beaten to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs, or Italian breadcrumbs: Provides that unmistakable crunch and golden color.
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a delightful, nutty flavor and extra savory richness in the crust.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky warmth that brightens the breading.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates every crumb.
Extra light olive oil, or a neutral oil like canola, or avocado: Perfect for frying to achieve crispiness without overpowering the flavor.
Lemon wedges, chopped parsley and coarse salt, for serving: Vibrant finishes that add freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts and then place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them using a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This not only ensures even cooking but also tenderizes the meat for the juiciest results.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken cutlets evenly with 1 teaspoon of the fine sea salt and the black pepper. This initial seasoning layers the meat with flavor before the breading process, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned.

Step 3: Set up the Breading Station

Arrange three shallow dishes for a classic breading trinity: one with the flour, one with beaten eggs combined with 1 tablespoon of water, and the last with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This setup makes the breading process smooth and efficient.

Step 4: Bread the Cutlets

Work with one cutlet at a time, gently dredging it in the flour first to coat lightly. Shake off excess flour, then dip the cutlet into the egg wash, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Finally, press each cutlet firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, covering completely—the Parmesan and seasonings mixed into the breadcrumbs create a beautifully savory crust you’ll adore.

Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat a generous layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the breaded cutlets—don’t overcrowd the pan to allow maximum crispiness. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then serve warm.

How to Serve Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe

The image shows a four-part step process of coating meat slices. The first part has a woman's hand holding tongs, placing a light pink meat slice with black pepper on a white plate filled with white flour. The second part shows a piece of meat covered in flour being dipped into a white bowl filled with yellow, beaten eggs. The third has a white plate with piles of beige breadcrumbs and a spoon, as a woman’s hand presses the egg-covered meat into the breadcrumbs. The last part shows several breaded meat slices arranged neatly in a baking tray. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance both the look and flavor of the Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe, squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the cutlets to add a bright, tangy contrast to the rich crust. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note, while a pinch of coarse salt finishes it off perfectly, balancing all the flavors.

Side Dishes

These crispy cutlets pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Think light and crisp salads for freshness, creamy mashed potatoes for comfort, or sautéed greens like spinach or asparagus to keep things vibrant and healthy. Roasted vegetables or a classic pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic also make fantastic companions to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on presentation, serve the cutlets as the star of a sandwich with melted provolone, fresh tomatoes, and arugula on a crusty roll. Alternatively, slice the cutlets thinly and layer them over pasta or a hearty grain bowl, letting that shimmering breadcrumb crust lend its magic throughout every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover cutlets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crisp, layer them between sheets of parchment paper instead of plastic wrap, which helps prevent sogginess from trapped moisture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze cooked cutlets, let them cool completely first. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest reheated cutlets, avoid the microwave if possible. Instead, warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. A toaster oven works wonderfully too, preserving the crunch without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra flavor and juiciness, but be sure to adjust cooking time slightly since they may be thicker. Pounding them thin will also help achieve an even, crispy exterior.

What type of breadcrumbs work best?

Panko breadcrumbs are preferred because of their light, airy texture that crisps beautifully. However, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs also work well and add an extra herby flavor, which complements the Parmesan very nicely.

Is it possible to bake the cutlets instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the breaded cutlets on a greased baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help mimic frying and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Can I prepare the breaded cutlets ahead of time before frying?

Definitely! You can bread the cutlets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

What oil is best for frying the cutlets?

Choose oils with high smoke points and neutral flavors, like extra light olive oil, canola, or avocado oil. They get hot enough to crisp the coating without imparting strong tastes or burning quickly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets Recipe enough—it’s one of those timeless dishes that promises crunchy, flavorful results every single time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it offers comfort and satisfaction on every plate. So grab your ingredients, brighten your kitchen with those delicious aromas, and get ready to enjoy some seriously crispy, tender chicken cutlets that feel like a warm hug from the inside out!