Hot, crispy, salty, and calling for some sauce! These Crunchy Chicken Cutlets are a dinner hit.
Crispy Chicken is King.
And that’s simply the truth.
Recently, I found myself in a cooking slump, but it turns out I wasn’t tired of cooking – I just needed a steady diet of crispy chicken cutlets for dinner.
Hot, crunchy, salty, and just waiting for a sauce (like gochujang, perhaps?! or bang bang?!), yet they are also perfect served plain for the kids, dipped in ketchup?! They pair wonderfully with any meal? They ARE a meal all on their own? Wow, incredible. These brought back my excitement in the best way possible.
At first, when I began my crispy chicken adventure, I was doing plenty of frying. It has a certain therapeutic quality to it. Yet, lazy moments do happen, which is why the air fryer comes in as the hero. While the chicken becomes wonderfully golden and pleasantly crispy, I whip up a quick sauce, maybe make our go-to simple green salad, and try to tidy up the markers and crayons for the umpteenth time in a day before enjoying dinner.
Every time I make this, I’m so pleased I did.
Hope you enjoy it. (I’m nearly certain your kids will rave about it.)
If you’re looking for more easy dinners, you MUST check out this page featuring all our most popular dinner recipes!
Watch How To Prepare This Crispy Chicken
Commonly Asked Questions About These Crispy Chicken Cutlets
How can I bake these in the oven?
Bake at 400 degrees for 18 minutes (9 minutes per side).
Can I fry them instead?
Absolutely! Heat an inch of avocado oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drop of water; when it sizzles, it’s time to add the chicken. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
Can I use a different oil?
If you lack avocado oil spray for the air fryer, a slight drizzle of olive oil on top will suffice! However, I prefer a spritz for even coating of the panko, ensuring consistent browning.
Are these spicy?
Not really spicy! The hot sauce is optional, so feel free to skip it.
Can this be made gluten-free?
I haven’t tried it yet, but I assume using GF flour and GF breadcrumbs should work fine!
Crispy Chicken Cutlets
Total Time:
25 minutesYield:
4 servings 1x
Description
Hot, crunchy, salty, and calling for some sauce! These Crunchy Chicken Cutlets are a dinner hit.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Crunchy Chicken Cutlets
Instructions
- Prep: Cut each chicken breast into 3 thin pieces – begin by removing the tenderloin from the back, then horizontally slice the remaining chicken breast in half. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Three Bowls: Use a wide, shallow bowl for each of these: 1) flour. 2) eggs and hot sauce. 3) panko. Season the flour and panko bowls with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Dip and Coat: Dip the chicken in the flour; shake off any extra. Dip into the egg mixture; let the excess drip off. Coat in the panko, turning a few times, pressing gently until fully covered. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with all pieces. Spray each piece with avocado oil spray to achieve a beautifully golden result.
- Cook It Up: Air fry in a single layer at 375 for 6 minutes, then increase to 400 degrees for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra browning. Ensure an internal temp of at least 165 degrees. I usually do this in two batches. (Other methods can be found in the notes.)
- You’re all set! Hot, crunchy, salty, juicy, thin, and delicious. Perfect with any sauce, either dipped or brushed on. We absolutely love it.
Notes
Breadcrumb options: I have also used traditional breadcrumbs instead of panko – the outcome is quite similar, but the breadcrumbs offer a tighter/finer coating on the chicken. Both versions are delicious!
To fry: Heat an inch of avocado oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Test with a drop of water; if it sizzles, it’s ready for the chicken. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown with an internal temperature of 160 degrees.
If avocado oil spray is unavailable, a light drizzle of oil over the top will also do! However, I prefer a spritz for even coating of the panko resulting in uniform browning.
To Bake: 400 degrees for 18 minutes (9 minutes per side).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crispy chicken, crunchy chicken cutlets, chicken cutlets
**How to Prepare Crispy Chicken Cutlets at Home**
Crispy chicken cutlets are a cherished comfort meal that can be enjoyed in numerous ways—from sandwiches and salads to pasta dishes or as a primary course with sides. Making them at home is simpler than you might think, and with the right methods, you can get that beautiful golden, crunchy exterior and juicy, soft interior every time. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you master the technique of making crispy chicken cutlets at home.
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### What Are Chicken Cutlets?
Chicken cutlets are thin slices of boneless, skinless chicken breast that are generally breaded and pan-fried or baked. Due to their thinness, they cook quickly and evenly, making them perfect for a swift weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
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### Ingredients You Will Need
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons milk or water
– 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko for added crunch)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, to enhance flavor)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Vegetable or olive oil for frying
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
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### Step-by-Step Directions
#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken**
Begin by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two thin cutlets from each breast. This will yield four cutlets total. If necessary, place the cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about ¼ inch thick. This helps ensure even cooking and tenderness.
#### 2. **Season the Chicken**
Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. You can also sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or paprika for additional flavor.
#### 3. **Establish a Breading Station**
Set up three shallow dishes:
– **Dish 1:** All-purpose flour
– **Dish 2:** Beaten eggs mixed with milk or water
– **Dish 3:** Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and any additional seasonings
#### 4. **Bread the Chicken**
Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, fully coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.
#### 5. **Chill the Cutlets (Optional but Recommended)**
Arrange the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. This aids in the coating sticking better during cooking, yielding a crisper result.
#### 6. **Fry the Cutlets**
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (approximately 350°F or shimmering), add the cutlets in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
#### 7. **Drain and Serve**
Shift the cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, or incorporate them into your favorite recipes.
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### Tips for Extra Crispy Cutlets
– **Use panko breadcrumbs** for increased crunchiness.
– **Double dredge** for a thicker crust: dip the cutlet in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
– **Avoid overcrowding the pan**, as it may reduce the oil temperature and make the cutlets soggy.
– **Use a thermometer** to maintain the right oil temperature (about 350°F).
– **Drain on a wire rack** rather than paper towels to prevent the bottom from becoming soggy.
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### Serving Suggestions
Crispy chicken cutlets are incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas:
– Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional meal.
– Slice and top a Caesar salad for added protein and crunch.
– Place in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
– Use in chicken Parmesan with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
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### Final Thoughts
Creating crispy chicken cutlets at home is a rewarding and delicious task. With a handful of simple ingredients and techniques, you can craft a dish that could be served in a restaurant right from your kitchen. Whether cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these golden cutlets are sure to impress.
Bon appétit!