Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! These baked chicken cutlets are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They're incredibly versatile, easily customizable, and so much healthier than their fried counterparts. This recipe provides a simple, foolproof method for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken cutlets every time, making it a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal that’s both satisfying and good for you!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Create the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In the second, place the beaten egg. In the third, put the bread crumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Cutlets
Place the breaded chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should register 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious baked chicken cutlets immediately with lemon wedges. They're fantastic on their own, or you can pair them with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Cutlets:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and browning. If necessary, bake the cutlets in batches.
- Use panko bread crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a wonderfully crispy crust.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or even a spicy blend would be delicious!
- Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illness.
Variations:
- Parmesan Chicken Cutlets: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs for a cheesy twist.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Cutlets: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary) to the flour mixture.
- Spicy Chicken Cutlets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe offers a simple path to healthy, delicious meals. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and variations to create your perfect baked chicken cutlet recipe! It's a great option for quick dinner ideas and easily adaptable to suit your dietary needs. This recipe for easy recipes is a true winner in the world of healthy meals.