Nothing quite compares to biting into a perfectly fried chicken cutlet—crispy and golden on the outside, juicy and tender inside. This straightforward recipe uses everyday pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for hectic weeknights or laid-back weekend meals. Enjoy these cutlets on their own, layered into sandwiches, or paired with your favorite sides—they’re bound to become a household staple.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 large | Main protein |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1¼ cups | Light, crunchy coating |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup | Adds savory depth |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Egg | 1 | Helps breading stick |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Vegetable oil | ⅓ cup | For pan-frying |
Place the chicken breasts in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This firms them up just enough to make slicing and pounding easier.
Carefully slice each breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Place them between parchment paper or plastic wrap and gently pound to about ¼-inch thickness so they cook evenly.
In a shallow bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The panko ensures a crisp, airy coating.
In another bowl, whisk the egg until fully blended.
Dip each cutlet into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Set aside while the oil heats.
Warm the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F). Test by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the cutlets for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate or wire rack to drain briefly.
When the weather heats up, nothing hits the spot like a cool, creamy dessert that…
If Southern comfort flavors are your thing, Tennessee Onions deserve a spot on your table.…
Pancakes are a timeless go-to—quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always comforting. Still, classic flour-based…
Indulge in the Comfort of Chicken Parmesan Chicken Parmesan is a timeless Italian-American favorite, known…
Ultimate Hamburger Hash This satisfying one-skillet meal combines tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions,…
Slow Cooker Meatballs: Effortless Comfort Food There’s something timeless about slow cooker meals—the kind that…