This baked chicken cutlet recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken cutlets while keeping the same crispy, juicy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these cutlets are seasoned to perfection, coated with crunchy breadcrumbs, and baked to a golden-brown finish. Serve them with a side of veggies or in a sandwich for a delicious, satisfying meal!
Overview of Baked Chicken Cutlets
These baked chicken cutlets are a lighter take on the classic breaded chicken, using the oven instead of frying. They’re coated in breadcrumbs, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without all the extra oil. This method is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cutlets
For the Cutlets:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded to even thickness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- In one shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
- In a second dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Press the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat on both sides.
- Place the breaded cutlet onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for all cutlets.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Cutlets
- Lightly brush the tops of the cutlets with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cutlets are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve with your choice of sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Cutlets
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken to a uniform thickness.
- You can add Italian seasoning or other herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Conclusion: A Healthy, Crispy Alternative
This baked chicken cutlet recipe provides the perfect balance of flavor and crunch without the excess fat of frying. It’s an easy, healthy meal that can be paired with various sides or used as a base for sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Simple, tasty, and versatile, these baked cutlets will quickly become a household favorite!
