Easy Chicken Cutlets

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Crispy, golden, and incredibly juicy, these Easy Chicken Cutlets are a weeknight dinner dream come true. With their crunchy coating and tender center, they make a versatile base for sandwiches, salads, or a main dish everyone will be reaching for seconds of. Perfectly pan-fried and seasoned, they deliver that satisfying crunch without the fuss of deep frying.

Whether you’re serving them up with a side of pasta, tucking them into sliders, or dipping them into marinara sauce (as pictured), these cutlets are a must-have in your recipe rotation. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal go-to for busy evenings.

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What’s the Secret to Super Crispy Chicken Cutlets?

The key lies in using panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch and pounding the chicken breasts thin for even cooking. Don’t skip the resting time after breading—it helps the coating stick beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Easy Chicken Cutlets

Chicken Breasts
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts—sliced and pounded thin to cook quickly and evenly.

Salt & Black Pepper
A simple yet essential seasoning that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.

All-Purpose Flour
Helps the egg mixture cling to the chicken and forms the base of the breading process.

Eggs
Beaten eggs create the glue that binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken.

Panko Breadcrumbs
For that extra crispy exterior. Panko stays crunchy longer than regular breadcrumbs.

Grated Parmesan Cheese
Adds a savory umami boost and melts into the crust for extra flavor.

Garlic Powder & Paprika
These spices deepen the flavor without overpowering the dish.

Olive Oil or Neutral Oil for Frying
Use enough oil to cover the pan’s surface for shallow frying.

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How To Make the Easy Chicken Cutlets

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

In three separate bowls, place flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in the egg wash, then coat generously in the breadcrumb mixture. Let them rest on a plate for 10 minutes to set the crust.

Step 4: Pan Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the cutlets 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches and avoid overcrowding.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Transfer cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store Chicken Cutlets

Easy Chicken Cutlets are best served fresh and crispy, but they reheat surprisingly well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes to regain that crunch.

To freeze, place cooked cutlets on a baking sheet until firm, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F for 18-20 minutes.

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What to Serve With Easy Chicken Cutlets?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A buttery classic that balances the crisp texture of the cutlets.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

For something indulgent and cheesy, this pairs perfectly.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Add some greens to your plate with lightly sautéed green beans.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

These crispy-edged potatoes are a flavor match made in heaven.

Crispy Fried Zucchini

Serve as a veggie side or appetizer to start the meal.

Classic Caesar Salad

Its zesty dressing and crunchy croutons are great with chicken.

Creamy Tomato Soup

Great for dipping or a cozy side during colder months.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Simple garlicky pasta rounds out a family-friendly Italian-style meal.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re a fan of these crispy chicken cutlets, you might enjoy these delicious dinner inspirations:

• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
• White Cheddar Chicken Pasta
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a spicy dip or a sprinkle of fresh herbs? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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