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 all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites

I absolutely love making Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets on busy weeknights. They are a quick and delicious solution that never fails to impress my family. With just a few ingredients and some simple techniques, I achieve a golden crust and tender chicken every time. These cutlets are versatile, great for serving with pasta, placing in a sandwich, or just enjoying with a side salad. It’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:01:30.302Z

When I first tried making crispy chicken cutlets, I experimented with various coatings until I discovered the magic of Parmesan cheese. The cheese not only adds a burst of flavor but also creates a wonderfully crispy exterior that elevates the dish. The first time I served these, my family couldn't get enough!

To ensure perfect cutlets every time, I recommend pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This small step makes a huge difference in cooking time and ensures that every bite is juicy and tender. Paired with a squeeze of fresh lemon, these cutlets are a true delight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy golden crust packed with savory Parmesan flavor
Juicy and tender chicken that stays moist
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night

Perfecting the Breading Process

The key to achieving that irresistible crispy texture lies in how you bread the chicken. After pounding the chicken to an even thickness, it's essential to follow a three-step process: flour, egg, and breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. This sequence not only assists in the coating adherence but also ensures a beautiful, golden crust when fried. I recommend using seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost, and don’t rush the pressing step—make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly against the chicken for maximum crunchiness.

Another tip is to ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Ideally, the temperature should be around 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go. Avoid overcrowding the pan as it could reduce the oil temperature, leading to soggy cutlets. Fry in batches if necessary, giving each cutlet ample space to cook evenly and achieve that coveted golden brown color.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

While this recipe calls for Parmesan cheese, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These can lend different flavor nuances to the dish. Additionally, if you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just ensure the products you choose specify their gluten-free status to avoid any dietary issues.

Furthermore, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder to your breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish too—try adding chopped parsley or oregano for a fresh twist. If you're in a pinch and lack breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or panko are excellent substitutes. Panko, in particular, will make your cutlets even crispier due to its larger flakes, which catch more oil during frying.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Cutlets

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Set Up Breading Stations

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.

Fry the Cutlets

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the cutlets from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the meat with a delightful tang that complements the crispy coating beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Cutlets can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great choice for meal prep. After breading, you can place the cutlets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fry as directed. This not only saves time on busy nights but also helps the coating adhere better as it settles into the chicken.

If you have any leftover cutlets, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crisp while ensuring they're heated through. I avoid microwaving them as it can make the breading soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These cutlets are incredibly versatile! For a classic approach, serve them with a side of spaghetti marinara or a fresh garden salad. For a sandwich variation, pair the cutlets with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on a crusty roll. You can also slice the cutlets thinly and serve them atop a bed of arugula for a delicious chicken salad.

Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavors and balances the richness of the fried chicken. Additionally, consider garnishing with chopped parsley for a pop of color. There’s no limit to how you can enjoy these cutlets—let your creativity lead from dinner plates to lunchboxes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these chicken cutlets instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

→ How can I make these chicken cutlets gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and the seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ What should I serve with Parmesan chicken cutlets?

They pair wonderfully with pasta, salad, or even in a sandwich with fresh veggies and sauces.

→ Can I freeze leftover chicken cutlets?

Yes, you can freeze cooked cutlets. Just ensure they are fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They should be consumed within 2 months.