Italian Chicken Cutlets
Juicy, crispy Italian chicken cutlets with seasoned breading and cheesy flavor, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal suited for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast half between two sheets of wax paper and flatten to ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Combine Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, Italian salad dressing mix, dried oregano, and garlic powder in a shallow dish.
- Dip each flattened chicken breast into beaten eggs, then dredge in the bread crumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat bread crumbs or skipping the cheese. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with olive oil for added flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-packaged breaded chicken cutlets. To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken cutlets with a side of spaghetti or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair well with marinara sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. For a heartier dish, consider serving alongside Chicken Cacciatore Casserole or Italian-Style Chicken Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken cutlets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which helps retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chicken Cutlets contains roughly 529 calories, with 19g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (215% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), and calcium (137% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 483mg per serving (21% 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 use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more flavorful and juicier option. Just ensure they are flattened to the same thickness for even cooking.
What can I serve with chicken cutlets?
Great sides include roasted vegetables, a light pasta salad, or garlic bread. For a lighter option, a simple green salad or steamed vegetables would also complement the dish well.
Can I freeze the chicken cutlets?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken cutlets. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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).