Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Italian Grandma Chicken Cutlet recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It's the perfect blend of crispy, juicy chicken and a tangy, savory sauce – a true taste of Italy in your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Set up a breading station: flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
- Once cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken cutlets.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately over pasta, with a side salad, or simply on its own. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Cutlets:
- Don't overcrowd the pan! This will lower the temperature and result in soggy chicken instead of crispy cutlets.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispy chicken, you can double-bread the cutlets – repeating steps 2.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs (like oregano or basil) to the breadcrumbs.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the marinara sauce during the simmering stage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Italian Grandma Chicken Cutlet recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. The best recipes are often the easiest, and this one definitely fits the bill. Enjoy!