Baked Chicken Cutlets Recipe – A Healthy and Easy Chicken Dinner

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If you’re in search of a flavorful and healthy chicken dish that’s simple to prepare, this baked chicken cutlets recipe is the perfect choice. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these oven-baked chicken cutlets provide a guilt-free twist on a traditionally fried favorite. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this recipe will check all the boxes.

Learn how to make baked chicken cutlets, explore variations, and discover tips for achieving that irresistible crunch, all without frying. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cutlets

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious recipe:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Wet Mixture:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water

For Cooking:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare crispy, golden baked chicken cutlets in under an hour:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thin cutlets. If the cutlets are uneven, place them between sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet until they’re about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2: Assemble Your Coating

  1. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
  2. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lightly shake off any extra crumbs.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

  1. Place the coated cutlets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.
  2. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each cutlet to help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the cutlets halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.

Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Cutlets

  1. Use Panko for Extra Crispiness
    Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko to get an ultra-crunchy texture.
  2. Add a Touch of Zest
    For a citrusy twist, mix lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Bake on a Wire Rack
    Place the chicken on an oven-safe wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate, creating an even crisp throughout.
  4. Don’t Skip the Olive Oil Drizzle
    A little olive oil on top ensures your cutlets bake up golden and crispy rather than dry.
  5. Customize Your Seasonings
    Amp up the flavor with extras like cayenne pepper for heat, or smoked paprika for depth.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. Here are some variations you can try:

  • Herb-Crusted Chicken Cutlets
    Add fresh chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an herbaceous twist.
  • Cheesy Bliss
    Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of each cutlet in the final 5 minutes of baking.
  • Gluten-Free Option
    Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Spicy Buffalo Style
    Coat your cutlets in buffalo sauce after baking and serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • Kid-Friendly Nuggets
    Cut the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces before breading and baking.

Serving Suggestions

These baked chicken cutlets are highly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:

  1. Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a cozy dinner.
  2. Low-Carb Option: Pair with a simple arugula salad and roasted vegetables.
  3. Italian Feast: Top the cutlets with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake for 5 more minutes for an easy chicken Parmesan.
  4. Light Lunch: Slice the cutlets and use them in a sandwich or wrap with lettuce, tomato, and a light dressing.

Baked chicken cutlets are also excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This baked chicken cutlets recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a fried chicken dish but with a healthier twist. Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, these cutlets are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether served fresh out of the oven, in a sandwich, or reheated as a snack, they never disappoint.

Give this easy, healthy chicken dinner a try and share it with friends and family. Once you experience how simple and satisfying it is, you’ll never go back to frying again! Happy cooking!