Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Name: Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions. The golden, crispy coating, packed with flavor, makes these chicken cutlets irresistible. They’re not only quick to prepare, but the combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside. I often serve them with a fresh salad or pasta, and my family can't get enough of this easy yet delicious dish!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:50:20.794Z

When I first tried making chicken cutlets, I wanted them to be as crispy as they were juicy. After a few attempts, I learned that the secret lies in letting the chicken rest after coating it, which helps the breadcrumbs adhere better. The Parmezan not only adds a rich flavor but also browns beautifully when frying, creating that delightful crunch with each bite.

Another tip I love to share is to season the breadcrumbs with herbs. I usually toss in some Italian seasoning and garlic powder, which elevates the dish even further. It’s these little tweaks that make the cutlets not just good, but truly memorable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Golden, crispy texture that satisfies every crunch craving
Rich, cheesy flavor from the Parmesan that enhances the chicken
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining

Perfecting the Breading Technique

The breading process is crucial for achieving the signature crispy texture of these chicken cutlets. When dredging in flour, ensure you shake off the excess; this helps the egg adhere better without being too thick. A thin, even coating allows the breadcrumbs to stick more effectively. Remember to separate your breading station clearly to avoid cross-contamination, as productivity increases with a tidy workspace.

Resting the breaded cutlets for about 5 minutes before frying is essential. This step allows the moisture to be absorbed by the breadcrumbs, ensuring they stick better during frying. As a quick tip, you can cover them lightly with plastic wrap to keep them moist while you heat the oil. This wait can make a noticeable difference, resulting in a crunchier exterior.

Choosing the Right Oil and Frying Technique

For frying, selecting the right oil is essential—opt for oils with a high smoking point, like vegetable or canola oil. This prevents the oil from burning and imparting an unpleasant flavor to your cutlets. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers; this indicates it’s hot enough for frying. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.

Fry the chicken cutlets in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause uneven cooking and a soggy coating. Typically, frying 2-3 cutlets at a time is ideal. Cook them until they develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your crispy chicken cutlets:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Ensure you have all the ingredients prepped and ready for the cooking process!

Instructions

Here's how to make your crispy chicken cutlets:

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, to ensure uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Let the breaded cutlets rest for about 5 minutes.

Fry the Cutlets

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken cutlets in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve

Transfer the cutlets to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve hot with a side of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious crispy chicken cutlets!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, double coat your chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb process. Also, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for a zesty kick!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover chicken cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, I recommend reheating them in an air fryer or a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This method will help revive the crunch that frying initially provided, making them taste freshly cooked.

If you want to freeze the cutlets, do so before frying. Once breaded, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Afterward, store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready, you can fry them directly from frozen; just increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets pair wonderfully with a side of mixed greens drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or creamy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside spaghetti and marinara sauce for a delicious twist on classic chicken Parmesan. You can also slice the cutlets and place them in a sandwich or wrap for a flavorful lunch option.

For a different flavor profile, consider experimenting with the breadcrumb mixture. Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or replace half of the breadcrumbs with panko for an even crunchier coating. You can also mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the flavor to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these chicken cutlets instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What can I serve with crispy chicken cutlets?

These cutlets are delicious with a side salad, pasta, or on a sandwich. They can also be served with dips like ranch or marinara.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftover cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore some crispness.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture. Just be mindful of the cooking time as they may take slightly longer.