Crispy Chicken Cutlets

• In the first bowl, add flour and season it with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and water.
• In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a crunchier coating, but regular breadcrumbs will work too.

3. Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken cutlet in the following order:

• First, coat the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
• Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken to form a thick, even coating. Make sure each piece is well-covered.

4. Fry the Chicken Cutlets

Heat about 1/2 cup of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a few breadcrumbs into the pan—if they sizzle, the oil is ready.

Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If necessary, adjust the heat to avoid burning the breadcrumbs before the chicken is cooked through.

5. Drain and Serve

Once the cutlets are perfectly crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Let them rest for a couple of minutes to retain their crispiness, then serve!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Crispy chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile, and you can serve them in numerous ways:

• Classic with Sides: Pair the cutlets with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a traditional and comforting meal.
• Chicken Sandwiches: Serve the crispy cutlets on a bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a dollop of mayonnaise or mustard.
• Chicken Parmesan: Place the cutlets on top of a bed of spaghetti and top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a homemade chicken Parmesan.
• Wraps: Slice the cutlets and wrap them in a tortilla with fresh veggies, cheese, and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing for an easy and satisfying lunch.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy ranch for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Cutlets

• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: The egg wash helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, ensuring a crispy, golden coating.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, giving the cutlets an extra-crunchy exterior. If you don’t have panko, use regular breadcrumbs, but consider toasting them lightly in a pan for added crunch.
• Ensure Even Cooking: If the cutlets are thick, consider butterflying or pounding them for even cooking. This way, they cook faster and more evenly.
• Control the Heat: Keep the oil at a steady medium heat. Too hot, and the breading will burn before the chicken is cooked; too low, and the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Rest After Frying: Let the cutlets rest on paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps maintain their crispiness.

Why Crispy Chicken Cutlets are a Winner

Crispy Chicken Cutlets are a versatile, family-friendly dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a delicious meal for a gathering, these cutlets deliver both flavor and texture that’s sure to please. The crispy, golden coating gives way to tender, juicy chicken inside, creating a perfect balance of crunch and flavor.

Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they can also be dressed up or down depending on your preferences. Serve them as a simple dinner with a side of vegetables or transform them into a hearty sandwich or pasta dish. With their crispy, satisfying texture and endless possibilities, Crispy Chicken Cutlets are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Give this simple, satisfying recipe a try and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have crispy chicken cutlets that everyone will love!