Chicken Cutlets Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Cutlets Recipe: Chicken cutlets are a beloved dish in many households, thanks to their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a sandwich filling, these golden-brown delights can be made using a variety of cooking methods like frying, baking, or air frying. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they can also be customized with different seasonings, sauces, and sides. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this guide will walk you through each step to create the perfect chicken cutlets.

Ingredients Needed

To make chicken cutlets, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breasts (2 large pieces)
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Eggs (2 large, beaten)
• Breadcrumbs (2 cups, plain or seasoned)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Pepper (½ teaspoon)
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) (optional)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) (optional for color)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Ingredient Tips:

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• You can customize the seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.

Equipment Needed

Before starting, make sure you have the necessary tools ready:

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Meat mallet (or rolling pin)
• Mixing bowls
• Large frying pan
• Tongs or a spatula
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

Optional:

• Air fryer or baking sheet if using alternative cooking methods.

Having all your tools organized helps streamline the cooking process.

Preparing the Chicken

Proper preparation is key to achieving tender and evenly cooked chicken cutlets.

1. Trim and slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner pieces. Each piece should be around ½ inch thick.
2. Pound the chicken gently with a meat mallet to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking.
3. Rinse and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the breading adhere better.

Marination Process (Optional)

While marinating isn’t essential, it can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken cutlets.

Why marinate?

• Marinating helps infuse the chicken with flavor and keeps it moist during cooking.

Simple Marinade Ideas:

• Lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs
• Buttermilk and spices for a tender, juicy texture
• Soy sauce, ginger, and honey for an Asian twist

Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best results. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak can make a difference.

Making the Breading Station

A well-organized breading station ensures that your cutlets get a perfectly even coating.

Prepare three separate bowls:

• Bowl 1: All-purpose flour, seasoned with salt and pepper
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs, lightly seasoned with a pinch of salt
• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, mixed with any additional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika

Coating process:

• Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
• Dip it into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
• Finally, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

For an extra crispy layer, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps twice.

Cooking Methods Overview

There are several ways to cook chicken cutlets, each with its own advantages:

• Frying: Classic and produces the crispiest cutlets.
• Baking: Healthier option with less oil.
• Air Frying: Combines crispiness with reduced fat content.

Each method works well, but frying remains the go-to for maximum crunch. Let’s dive into the details for each method.

Step-by-Step Frying Method

This method gives the chicken cutlets their signature golden, crispy crust.

1. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be about ¼ inch deep.
2. Test the oil by dropping a breadcrumb in—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
3. Add the cutlets to the pan, without overcrowding.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Transfer the cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Tips:

• Maintain consistent oil temperature for even cooking.
• Avoid flipping too often to prevent breaking the coating.

Alternative Baking Method

If you prefer a healthier option, baking is a great alternative.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
3. Lightly spray the cutlets with cooking oil.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

This method uses minimal oil while still delivering great texture.

Air Fryer Option

Air fryers are a fantastic way to cook chicken cutlets with less oil while still getting that crispy texture.

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
3. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Spray the top of the cutlets with a bit of oil when flipping for even crisping.

The result is a healthier version of fried chicken cutlets with the same crunch and tenderness!

Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking chicken cutlets to perfection requires the right balance of time and temperature.

• Frying: 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat (oil temperature: 350°F to 375°F).
• Baking: 20-25 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through.
• Air Fryer: 10-12 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through.

Tips to Avoid Overcooking:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Avoid frying at too low a temperature, which can make the cutlets greasy.
• Keep an eye on thinner cutlets, as they cook faster than thicker pieces.

How to Serve Chicken Cutlets

Chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides and sauces.

Serving Ideas:

• Classic Option: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and gravy.
• Light Option: Pair with a fresh salad, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Sandwiches: Add chicken cutlets to a toasted bun with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
• Sauces: Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, marinara, or honey mustard all complement the flavor well.

You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover chicken cutlets can be just as tasty if stored and reheated correctly.

1. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: Place cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cutlets can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating:
   • In the oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
   • In the air fryer: Reheat for 5-7 minutes at 375°F.
   • Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the cutlets soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your chicken cutlets turn out perfect every time:

1. Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many cutlets at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven frying and soggy coating.
2. Skipping the Flour: The flour step is crucial to help the egg and breadcrumbs adhere properly to the chicken.
3. Using Cold Chicken: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking for even results.
4. Wrong Oil Temperature: Oil that’s too hot burns the breading, while oil that’s too cool results in greasy cutlets.

Paying attention to these details will give you that restaurant-quality finish!

FAQs about Chicken Cutlets Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for chicken cutlets?

To make chicken cutlets, you will need boneless chicken breasts, bread crumbs, eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices for seasoning. Additionally, you may need cooking oil for frying.

2. How thin should I pound the chicken?

For optimal cooking and texture, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.

3. Can I bake chicken cutlets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake chicken cutlets. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded cutlets on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

4. How do I ensure my chicken cutlets are crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, make sure to coat the chicken evenly with flour, dip thoroughly in beaten eggs, and then cover completely with bread crumbs. Fry in hot oil at a consistent temperature of around 350°F (175°C), or until golden brown.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken cutlets?

Chicken cutlets pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, garden salad, or pasta with a light sauce. Choose sides that complement the seasoning of the cutlets.

6. How can I make gluten-free chicken cutlets?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free cereal or almond flour as alternatives to traditional bread crumbs.

7. Can I make chicken cutlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken cutlets in advance. Bread the cutlets as directed, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them on a baking sheet until solid and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

8. What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken cutlets?

Reheat leftover chicken cutlets in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Place the cutlets on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.

Conclusion

And there you have it—crispy, juicy chicken cutlets made from scratch! Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, chicken cutlets are a versatile, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to customize. You can pair them with your favorite sides and sauces to create a meal that fits any occasion. Now it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Trust me—once you try this recipe, you’ll be making chicken cutlets a regular part of your meal rotation!