Italian Chicken Cutlets Recipe
Overview:
Italian Chicken Cutlets, a delightful dish originating from a Southern Living cookbook, offer a delectable way to savor boneless chicken breasts. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, these cutlets are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed fresh from the skillet or as cold leftovers, they never fail to satisfy. With a preparation time of just 25 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, this recipe is a quick and convenient option for any mealtime. Each serving bursts with Italian-inspired seasonings, making it a hit among poultry enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken breast halves
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup dried breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Additional oil for frying
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 388.3
- Fat: 23.9g
- Saturated Fat: 5.8g
- Cholesterol: 115.9mg
- Sodium: 548.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 18.4g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 1.3g
- Protein: 23.8g
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Using a meat mallet, pound each piece of chicken between sheets of wax paper until 1/4″ thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat. |
| 2 | In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors. |
| 3 | In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until well mixed. |
| 4 | Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. |
| 5 | Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly. |
| 6 | In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. |
| 7 | Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. |
| 8 | Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). |
| 9 | If needed, add extra oil to the skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even frying. |
| 10 | Once cooked, transfer the chicken cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. |
| 11 | Serve hot with your favorite side dishes or allow them to cool for delicious cold leftovers. |
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Italian Chicken Cutlets with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair them with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
- Enjoy the leftovers cold in sandwiches or wraps for a quick and satisfying lunch option.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken cutlets before serving.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To make ahead, prepare the chicken cutlets up to the dredging step, then refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to the skillet to achieve a crispy exterior.
- To prevent overcrowding the skillet, cook the chicken cutlets in batches if necessary.
Conclusion:
With its crispy coating and succulent chicken, this Italian Chicken Cutlets recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these flavorful cutlets are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the convenience of a quick and delicious meal that can be savored fresh from the skillet or enjoyed as delightful leftovers. Add this recipe to your repertoire and elevate your chicken dinner game with a taste of Italy! 🍗🇮🇹
