Savory Italian Chicken Cutlets
If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the rich flavors of Italy while being easy to prepare, Italian chicken cutlets are an excellent choice. This delectable dish combines tender chicken breast with a crispy coating and aromatic Italian herbs, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
To make Italian chicken cutlets, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (preferably Italian-seasoned)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Olive Oil: for frying
- Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon Wedges: for serving
Preparation Steps
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare mouthwatering Italian chicken cutlets:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps ensure that the cutlets cook evenly.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations
In three separate shallow dishes, prepare your dredging stations:
- In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In the second dish, pour the beaten eggs.
- In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch more of salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken
Working with one chicken cutlet at a time, coat it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is well-coated on both sides. Repeat with each cutlet.
4. Fry the Cutlets
In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). You may need to adjust the heat if the oil starts to smoke.
5. Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the chicken cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Italian chicken cutlets can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, pasta with marinara sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also use them in sandwiches, topping them with marinara and mozzarella cheese for a delightful twist.
Conclusion
Italian chicken cutlets are a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy goodness and juicy chicken, making them a crowd-pleaser in any household. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the savory flavors of Italy and savor every bite of these delicious cutlets! Buon appetito!
