Breaded Chicken Cutlets
Crispy breaded chicken cutlets with fragrant thyme and lemon zest, perfect for a quick family dinner or entertaining guests with flavorful, golden-brown coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs, minced thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness.
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned bread crumbs each in separate shallow dishes.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into eggs, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Lay coated chicken breasts on a piece of wax paper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add oil.
- Cook two breasts at a time, placing smooth side down, about 2 minutes per side, until golden.
- Drain cooked chicken on paper towels or a rack.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake until firm to touch, about 8 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs or using panko for a crunchier texture. If you don't have fresh thyme, dried thyme works as a substitute. To manage oil splatter, use a splatter guard while frying the cutlets. You can also try this method with pork or turkey for a different twist on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the breaded chicken cutlets with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light lemon pasta. For a more casual option, enjoy them in a sandwich or wrap with your favorite toppings. Don't forget to browse more chicken recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover breaded chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the breading soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breaded Chicken Cutlets contains roughly 978 calories, with 11g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these chicken cutlets ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. This can help the breading adhere better. Just ensure they are covered to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of eggs for breading?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, try using buttermilk, yogurt, or a mixture of flour and water to create a batter. This will help the breading stick to the chicken without using eggs.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).