Baked chicken cutlets are the kind of dish that can turn any mundane weeknight into a culinary celebration. Picture this: golden, crispy-skinned chicken that’s juicy on the inside, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Every bite is a delightful dance of flavors that makes your taste buds sing and your heart happy.
I still remember the first time I tried baked chicken cutlets at my friend’s dinner party. The crispy coating, paired with tender meat, created an unforgettable experience. It quickly became a staple for gatherings and cozy family dinners alike. The excitement to dig in grows with every moment the dish rests in the oven, promising an explosion of taste.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked chicken cutlet recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- You can customize the seasoning based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry
- Its visually appealing golden color will impress anyone at the dinner table
- Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or fancy enough for entertaining guests
Sharing this dish with friends always brings smiles and compliments, making it a cherished recipe among loved ones.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
-
Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs work too if that’s what you have.
-
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken perfectly.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged varieties; a must-have!
-
Garlic Powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile; don’t skimp on this one.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
-
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup later.
Prepare Chicken: Take each chicken breast and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Create Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls—one for flour, one for beaten eggs mixed with salt and pepper, and one for breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into flour, shaking off excess. Next, coat it in egg mixture before rolling it in breadcrumbs to create that delicious crunchy layer.
Bake Cutlets: Place the coated cutlets on your prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve & Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest briefly before serving. These baked chicken cutlets pair wonderfully with fresh salad or pasta!
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something special that everyone will love! Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings or dipping sauces to make it your own!
You Must Know
- Baked chicken cutlets are not only delicious but also versatile
- You can customize seasonings and sauces to create a unique dish every time
- The crispy outside and juicy inside make them perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect baked chicken cutlets, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Bread the cutlets while waiting to ensure they cook evenly and remain crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or panko for extra crunch. Experiment with your favorite spices like paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure juicy baked chicken cutlets, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness before cooking
- Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet for even crispiness
- Always check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety
Sometimes I wonder if my family loves these baked chicken cutlets or me more! Whenever I make them, my kids turn into little food critics, and their smiles say it all.
FAQ
What can I serve with baked chicken cutlets?
Baked chicken cutlets pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, salad, or pasta for a complete meal.
Can I freeze baked chicken cutlets?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just ensure they’re properly cooled and stored in airtight containers.
How do I know when my chicken is cooked?
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safety.
Baked Chicken Cutlets
Baked chicken cutlets are a quick and delicious way to elevate any meal. With juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden crust, these cutlets are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings, they promise to be a hit at your table. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with salt and pepper, and one with breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place cutlets on the baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let rest briefly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
