Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? Look no further! This recipe for oven-baked chicken cutlets is your answer. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Forget greasy frying; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken cutlets with minimal cleanup – the best of both worlds! This is homemade cooking at its finest, a true addition to your collection of easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents dry, tough chicken. Using a meat mallet or even a heavy-bottomed pan works perfectly. Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Step 3: Bake the Cutlets
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the bottom of a baking sheet with olive oil. Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken cutlets from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes all pair beautifully. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a delightful zing!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Cutlets:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding prevents even browning and cooking. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker cutlets may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked through.
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or even a spicy blend would be delicious.
- For extra crispy cutlets: Broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Parmesan Chicken: Add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Instead of just using salt and pepper, try using fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano in the breading.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: ~30g Fat: ~15g Carbohydrates: ~15g
This recipe for oven-baked chicken cutlets is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s a testament to how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be, offering a delicious alternative to takeout and a perfect example of quick dinner ideas. Try it today and experience the difference!