Italian Chicken Cutlets

Whenever I’m in the mood for something crispy, flavorful, and downright satisfying, I turn to my beloved Italian Chicken Cutlets. This dish takes me back to family dinners where the aroma of sizzling chicken and spices fills the air, wrapping everyone in a warm embrace of comfort. The first time I made these cutlets, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such an impressive meal. With just a few ingredients and a little love, you can have a delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends alike. I remember serving these to my best friend, who couldn’t stop raving about the crispy texture and juicy flavor. It’s those moments that make cooking so rewarding.

What to Gather for Italian Chicken Cutlets

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making incredible Italian Chicken Cutlets. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating that signature flavor and texture. The combination of crispy bread crumbs, fresh chicken, and rich olive oil makes for a delightful dish. Let’s dive into the key players that bring this recipe to life!

• 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breast – Look for tender cuts that will cook quickly and stay juicy.
• 2 eggs (lightly beaten) – These will help the bread crumbs stick to the chicken, creating that irresistible crisp.
• ½ cup Italian-flavored bread crumbs – They add flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil – This is essential for frying and contributes a rich flavor to the cutlets.

Cooking Method for Italian Chicken Cutlets

Cooking up Italian Chicken Cutlets is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The steps below will guide you through achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Let’s get started!

1. Begin by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the eggs and bread crumbs adhere better, resulting in a crispier texture. If you skip this, the moisture can prevent that golden crust from forming.
2. Next, set up your dredging station by placing the eggs in one shallow dish and the bread crumbs in another. This makes coating the chicken quick and efficient. You want to ensure that each piece is thoroughly covered for the best flavor.
3. Now it’s time to coat the chicken. Take a piece and completely immerse it in the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Immediately transfer it to the dish with the bread crumbs and press gently to coat all sides. Set the coated pieces aside on a clean plate.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that a tiny bit of bread crumb sizzles when dropped in. This is a good indicator that the oil is ready for frying.
5. Once the oil is heated, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to have enough space to fry evenly. If your skillet is small, consider cooking in batches and adding additional olive oil as needed.
6. Let the chicken cook for about three minutes. You’ll notice the edges starting to turn golden brown. When you see this, it’s time to flip. Use tongs to turn each piece carefully.
7. Cook the other side for an additional three to four minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165 degrees F. If the cutlets are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning.
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This also keeps them crispy!
9. Finally, slice the Italian Chicken Cutlets and serve them hot. They’re perfect on their own or with a delicious dipping sauce on the side.

Recipe Variations about Italian Chicken Cutlets

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some variations and tips to make your Italian Chicken Cutlets even more delightful.

• Try different coatings: Instead of Italian-flavored bread crumbs, use panko for an even crispier texture. You can also add grated cheese to the mix for extra flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the bread crumbs for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Version: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the bread crumbs for a kick of heat.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier take, lightly spray the cutlets with olive oil and air fry at 375 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Leftovers: Use any leftover cutlets in a sandwich or salad the next day. They keep well in the fridge!
• Storage: Keep the cooked cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Best Served With

Pairing your Italian Chicken Cutlets with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the cutlets.
• Pasta Dish: Serve with a side of garlic pasta or spaghetti tossed in olive oil and herbs, making it a delightful Italian feast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and balance to your plate.
• Sandwiches: Slice the cutlets and layer them in a sandwich with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce for lunch the next day.
• Occasions: These cutlets are perfect for family dinners, casual lunch gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
• Seasonal Pairing: Pair with sides like a warm potato salad in the fall or a light cucumber salad in the summer.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Italian Chicken Cutlets are an irresistible dish that combines simplicity and flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of cooking something delicious. You won’t regret it!

Italian Chicken Cutlets

The ultimate comfort food, Italian Chicken Cutlets are crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Green Pan Non-Stick Pan
• Air Fryer
• Storage Containers

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Chicken Breast Thinly sliced
• 2 eggs Eggs Lightly beaten
• ½ cup Italian-flavored Bread Crumbs
• ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Instructions

 

• Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
• Place the eggs and bread crumbs into two separate shallow dishes. Completely coat the chicken in the egg, then the bread crumbs. Set aside on a clean plate.
• Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. After a minute, drop a bit of breadcrumbs into the oil to see if it sizzles. If not, wait another minute for the oil to heat.
• Add the chicken, tilting the pan to move the oil around as needed, and being careful not to overlap the pieces.
• Cook for 3 minutes, then turn over and cook for 3-4 more minutes, or until the chicken registers 165 degrees F with an instant-read thermometer. If the bottom starts to brown too deeply, lower the heat slightly.
• Remove from the pan with tongs, drain on a paper towel if desired, slice, and serve hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: Let cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Tip 2: These can be served cold or at room temperature.
• Tip 3: Look for chicken labeled “thin-sliced” or “thinly sliced” to make this easy.
• Tip 4: If starting with regular chicken breast, cut them into pieces that are 1/4-1/2 inches thick.
• Tip 5: To make in the air fryer, spray the cutlets lightly with olive oil spray and air fry at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes.

Keyword crispy chicken cutlets, easy chicken dinner, homemade chicken cutlets, Italian Chicken Cutlets

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.