Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Name: Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love preparing Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets for my family. They’re the perfect blend of crunchy and savory, and the best part is how quick and easy they are to whip up on a busy weeknight. The golden crust gets its rich flavor from a mix of Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs that makes each bite utterly delicious. Pair these cutlets with a fresh salad or pasta, and you have a delightful dinner that everyone enjoys. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:28:48.030Z

When I first tried making Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets, I was surprised by how satisfying the crunch was. The secret lies in the panko breadcrumbs which create that perfect texture when fried. I experimented with various seasoning blends until I found the ideal mix that balances beautifully with the cheese.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying. This allows excess oil to drain off while keeping the cutlets crisp, making them even more enjoyable when served. I often make a double batch because they are just too good to resist!

Why You'll Love These Cutlets
A crunchy exterior with a cheesy, savory flavor
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with many sides

Key Techniques for Perfectly Crispy Cutlets

Achieving the perfect crispy texture on your chicken cutlets is all about the breading. For optimal adhesion, ensure you let the chicken rest in the breading after coating. This helps the crumbs to stick better during frying. Additionally, try to use fresh panko breadcrumbs, as their larger, airy texture improves crunchiness. If you’d like a spicier kick, consider incorporating cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mix for an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the dish.

When frying, maintaining the right temperature is crucial for the best results. Aim for a medium heat, roughly around 350°F (175°C). This allows the cutlets to cook evenly, resulting in tender chicken with a beautifully golden crust. If the oil is too hot, the crust may burn before the chicken is cooked through. Conversely, if the oil is too cool, the cutlets will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A refreshing arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cutlets, providing a bright counterpoint. For a heartier option, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mash. If you prefer a pasta dish, a simple garlic and olive oil spaghetti can balance flavors without overwhelming the palate.

To elevate your cutlets, try topping them with a homemade marinara sauce or a light basil pesto right before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and moisture while keeping the crispy texture intact. You can also prepare a chicken Parmesan by layering marinara and mozzarella cheese on top, then briefly broiling until the cheese bubbles and browns—a lovely twist on the original that makes for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chicken cutlets:

Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Set Up Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one with flour mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, one with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even cover.

Fry the Cutlets

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken cutlets for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and allow to drain on a wire rack.

Serve

Serve the cutlets hot with your choice of sides. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy dish!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs into the breadcrumb mixture or squeezing some lemon juice over the cutlets before serving.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The use of grated Parmesan cheese is essential for achieving that iconic flavor in these cutlets. However, if you're looking for a lactose-free option, consider using a nutritional yeast blend, which offers a cheesy taste without the dairy. Similarly, the panko breadcrumbs provide a light crunch; for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes, ensuring to keep an eye on texture as these alternatives may behave differently when fried.

If you're in a pinch and don’t have all-purpose flour, cornstarch can be a great substitute. It creates an ultra-crisp coating thanks to its fine texture. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly when using different types of flour to ensure that your cutlets remain flavorful.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep these cutlets ahead of time. Once breaded, store them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze before frying. This allows you to keep them for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, directly fry from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. This method ensures you always have a delicious, quick meal option at your fingertips.

For storage, if you have leftover cutlets, be sure to cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to four days. When reheating, aim to crisp them back up in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat, flipping frequently, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these chicken cutlets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

→ What can I serve with crispy parmesan chicken cutlets?

They pair well with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or pasta. They are versatile and work with many sides!

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier cutlet, and they are just as delicious when coated and fried.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven to maintain the crispiness.