Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets

Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes, these Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets are the perfect choice. With a crispy, golden crust and a juicy, tender interior, these chicken cutlets are packed with the classic flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re serving them with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, these cutlets are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

For the Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets:

• 1 package chicken cutlets (roughly 1 – 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

1. Pound the Chicken:
   Begin by pounding each chicken cutlet to about 1/4-inch thickness. This step ensures even cooking and helps the chicken remain tender and juicy.

2. Bread the Chicken

1. Prepare the Breading:
   In a shallow dish, mix together 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). This will be the flavorful breading for your chicken cutlets.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   Take each chicken cutlet and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. Pat the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to create a nice, even coating that will give you a perfect crispy texture when cooked.

3. Cook the Chicken Cutlets

1. Heat the Skillet:
   In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. The combination of butter and oil will give your chicken cutlets a rich flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
2. Pan Fry the Cutlets:
   Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot skillet. Pan fry each side for 3-4 minutes, or until the cutlets are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
3. Cool the Cutlets:
   After cooking, remove the chicken cutlets from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. This allows the coating to stay crispy while the cutlets rest.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:

• Pasta: A classic side like spaghetti aglio e olio or a creamy Alfredo pasta.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cutlets.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or mixed vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage:
  Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  Reheat the chicken cutlets in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.

Conclusion

These Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets are a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dinner. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful, crispy chicken dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

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