The perfect weeknight meal can often feel elusive—but not anymore! Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets are here to save your dinner plans and your taste buds. This easy recipe transforms humble chicken cutlets into something extraordinary, coating them in a savory mix of Parmesan cheese and aromatic basil. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious dish after a long day, these cutlets deliver on flavor and ease.
Reasons to try it
So why should you consider making these Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets? Let me share a few compelling reasons. First off, this dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that kids and adults alike will rave about. Plus, it’s budget-friendly; with simple, everyday ingredients, you can serve up a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
“These Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets are an instant family favorite! They’re quick to make and packed with flavor. My kids devoured them!” — Emma R.
Preparing Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets
Making these crispy cutlets is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through it step-by-step. First, you’ll prep your breading station, then coat your chicken in egg and the Parmesan-bread crumb mixture for that delicious, crunchy exterior. Once frying begins, the kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”
Key ingredients
To prepare these cutlets, gather the following items:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- Olive oil for frying
These ingredients work harmoniously to achieve a crispy crust and juicy interior. Don’t have bread crumbs? You can easily make your own by toasting and blending up some day-old bread.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
- Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot and enjoy your quick, delicious dinner!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets can be enjoyed in so many ways! Serve them fresh out of the skillet alongside a bright mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a balance of flavors. Alternatively, pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal or pile them into a sandwich with some fresh veggies and a slice of mozzarella for a twist.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers (although they’re unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat and bring back that crispy texture, place them in an oven for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as this may make the cutlets soggy.
Tricks for success
To make your cooking experience even smoother, here are a few helpful tips:
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each cutlet enough space to cook evenly.
- For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little kick!
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment! Swap out the basil for fresh oregano or try adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist. You can even turn these cutlets into a delicious Parmesan-Basil Chicken Parmesan by adding marinara and mozzarella on top before baking until bubbly.
Your questions answered
- What do I serve with Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets?
- A great pair for this dish includes roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can bread the chicken earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. Just allow it to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
- Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded cutlets before cooking. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container, and they’ll be good for up to three months.
- What if I don’t have eggs for breading?
- You can substitute eggs with buttermilk or a mixture of flour and water. The key is to have a wet mixture for the crumbs to stick.
- What kind of oil should I use for frying?
- Olive oil is great for flavor, but you can also use avocado or canola oil for a higher smoke point. Ensure your oil reaches about 350°F for the best frying results.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
- Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that your cutlets are perfectly cooked without being dry.
- Can I bake these instead of frying?
- Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How long does it take to prepare this meal?
- Overall, this dish can be completed in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner!
Crispy Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Transform humble chicken cutlets into something extraordinary with a crispy Parmesan-basil coating for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
- Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot and enjoy your quick, delicious dinner!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
