Crispy baked chicken cutlets, Italian-style, offer a delightful combination of crunchy coating and tender, juicy chicken. This recipe brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen, featuring a savory blend of Pecorino Romano cheese, aromatic herbs, and spices. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, these chicken cutlets are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 3 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- About 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 3 large breasts)
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
- 1½ cups Seasoned Breadcrumbs (see recipe below)
- Oil for spraying (See Note below.)
- Salt flakes or coarse salt, for finishing (optional)
For the Seasoned Breadcrumbs:
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (fine texture)
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, chopped parsley, and whole milk. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- In another shallow dish, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the chicken.
- Place the breaded chicken cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with cooking oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- If desired, sprinkle the baked chicken cutlets with salt flakes or coarse salt for an extra burst of flavor.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cooking Spray Alternative: Instead of using cooking spray, you can brush the tops of the chicken cutlets with olive oil or melted butter for added richness.
- Herb Variation: Feel free to customize the seasoned breadcrumb mixture with your favorite herbs and spices. Freshly chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil can add a fragrant twist to the dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, replace the breadcrumbs with a mixture of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese. Use almond milk instead of whole milk in the egg wash.
- Low Carb Version: Follow the keto version substitutions, and serve the crispy baked chicken cutlets with a side of cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
- Can I prepare the chicken cutlets ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bread the chicken cutlets in advance and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
- What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover baked chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
- Can I freeze the unbaked chicken cutlets? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked breaded chicken cutlets for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- What sides pair well with crispy baked chicken cutlets? These chicken cutlets are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Crispy baked chicken cutlets, Italian-style, are a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. With a crispy breadcrumb coating infused with savory herbs and cheese, these chicken cutlets are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free lifestyle, there are easy substitutions to suit your dietary preferences. Serve these chicken cutlets with your favorite sides for a complete and comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the crunchy goodness of these baked chicken cutlets, and savor the taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!
