Breaded Chicken Cutlets With Lemon Basil Sauce
Introduction
This delightful recipe for Breaded Chicken Cutlets with Lemon Basil Sauce is a harmonious blend of crispy chicken and a zesty, aromatic sauce that brings an irresistible flavor to your table. It is especially perfect when served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and sweet corn, as the lemon basil sauce enhances the flavors of all three components, making each bite a satisfying experience. For those who enjoy a generous amount of sauce, consider doubling the recipe to ensure every piece of chicken is generously drizzled.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 5
- Category: Chicken
- Rating: ★★★★★ (Based on 13 reviews)
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 369.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 160.7 mg |
| Sodium | 976.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 26.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 27.8 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken cutlets | 1 lb |
| Lemon juice | 1 ½ tbsp |
| Eggs | ¼ |
| Milk | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh basil, chopped | ½ cup |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Canola oil (or butter) | As needed for frying |
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken Cutlets: Begin by rinsing the chicken cutlets under cold water to remove any residue. If you’re starting with whole boneless chicken breasts, ensure you slice them into even cutlets for uniform cooking. After rinsing, pat the cutlets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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Season the Cutlets: Generously season both sides of the cutlets with a complete seasoning blend of your choice. This adds depth to the chicken’s flavor, so don’t skip this step. Once seasoned, set the cutlets aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the breading.
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Prepare the Breading Station: In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs and milk, whisking them together until well blended. On a separate plate, place the breading mixture. This could be seasoned breadcrumbs or panko for added crunch.
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Coat the Cutlets: Dip each chicken cutlet into the milk and egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess liquid to drip off, then transfer the cutlets to the plate with the breading, pressing gently to ensure an even coating on both sides.
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Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat enough canola oil or butter over medium heat to coat the bottom of the pan. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of bread sizzles when dropped in, indicating it’s ready for frying.
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Cook the Cutlets: Carefully place the breaded cutlets into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4-6 minutes on one side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
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Flip and Finish Cooking: Using tongs, gently flip the cutlets to the other side and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Prepare the Lemon Basil Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, salt, and chopped basil. Heat over low heat until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is warmed through, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
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Serve: Once the chicken is perfectly golden brown and cooked through, remove the cutlets from the skillet and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle an adequate amount of the warm lemon basil sauce over the cutlets, allowing it to seep into the crispy coating.
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Enjoy: As a recommendation, serve the breaded chicken cutlets alongside a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes and sweet corn. The combination not only enhances the meal aesthetically but also allows the tangy sauce to elevate the flavor of each component. For those who love a saucy dish, consider doubling the lemon basil sauce to ensure you have enough to enjoy with every bite.
Conclusion
This recipe for Breaded Chicken Cutlets with Lemon Basil Sauce is an uncomplicated yet exquisite meal that is sure to impress your family or guests. With minimal preparation time and quick cooking, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The bright flavors of lemon and basil create a beautiful contrast to the rich, buttery chicken, making this dish a memorable addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
