Name: Baked Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken cutlets (usually 8 cutlets); 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs; 0.75 cups shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 1/3 cup light mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; to taste Salt; to taste pepper

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Whenever I think about comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is my homemade Baked Chicken Cutlets. These golden, crispy cutlets are an absolute delight, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. I still remember the first time I made them for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered, eager to savor each bite. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken and a crunchy panko coating. It’s a dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner, but it also fits perfectly into a cozy Sunday meal. Let me take you through this culinary journey that has become a staple in my household.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan

The Best Thing About This Baked Chicken Cutlets

What makes Baked Chicken Cutlets so special? Let me share a few reasons why this dish has won my heart.

Perfectly Crispy Every Time

The secret lies in the technique! Coating the chicken cutlets in a mix of panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a texture that’s unbelievably crispy. Baking rather than frying means you can achieve the crunch without excess oil, making each bite feel like a treat.

Quick and Easy Preparation

With just a few simple ingredients, the Baked Chicken Cutlets come together in no time. As a busy person myself, I appreciate recipes that don’t demand hours of my day. Preparing the marinade and coating takes under thirty minutes, so you can whip these up even on a hectic weeknight.

Kid-Friendly and Approachable

This dish has a universal appeal. Children and adults alike adore the crispy texture and seasoned flavor of the cutlets. It’s a fantastic way to introduce chicken into a meal, especially for picky eaters who might shy away from plain meats.

Great for Meal Prep

One of my favorite things about Baked Chicken Cutlets is how well they store. You can make a big batch on a Sunday and have delicious meals ready for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Whether tossed into a salad or served with rice, they shine in various presentations.

Versatile and Adaptable

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch up the herbs or spices to match your personal preferences. Try adding Italian herbs for a more Mediterranean twist or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for added depth.

Main Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cutlets

The ingredients for Baked Chicken Cutlets are simple yet incredibly effective in creating a delicious dish. Each component plays a role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The chicken cutlets are the star, providing a juicy base, while the panko bread crumbs offer the much-needed crunch. Together with the Parmesan cheese and a touch of mayonnaise, they create a mouthwatering experience.

2 pounds of chicken cutlets (usually 8 cutlets): The main protein, ensuring a satisfying dish that’s both filling and delicious.
1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style bread crumbs provide a light, crispy coating that’s superior to regular bread crumbs.
3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy depth that enhances the overall flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
1/3 cup light mayonnaise: Serves as a flavorful binder, keeping the coating adhered to the chicken.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a subtle tanginess that lifts the dish and balances the richness.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.

Cooking Instructions for Baked Chicken Cutlets

Creating Baked Chicken Cutlets is a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love every moment spent in the kitchen. The hands-on steps are not only easy but also rewarding as you see the transformation of simple ingredients into a delicious, crispy meal.

Start by moving one oven rack to a low position. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil. Spray the foil liberally with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect finish.
Next, prepare two medium bowls. In one bowl, mix the light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of pepper. This mixture will keep your chicken moist and flavorful.
In the other bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. This mixture will create that irresistible crispy coating.
Take each chicken cutlet and toss it in the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. This step is crucial as it will help the breadcrumb mix adhere perfectly.
One by one, press each coated cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to cover both sides thoroughly. Lay them out on the prepared baking sheet.
Once all cutlets are placed on the sheet, bake them in the lower part of the oven for 15 minutes. This lower position helps the bottoms crisp up beautifully.
If the tops haven’t browned sufficiently after 15 minutes, carefully move the baking sheet to a higher rack and turn on the broiler for one minute. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Once done, remove the cutlets from the oven and serve them warm. They’re perfect as a main dish or even sliced over a fresh salad.

Things Worth Knowing

Know Your Chicken: Using thin, even cutlets ensures that they cook quickly and evenly. If you can’t find thin cutlets, you can slice regular chicken breasts in half.
Consistency is Key: Make sure your panko coating is even. If you find some cutlets are not coated well, take a moment to press them in the crumbs again.
Watch the Broiler: When using the broiler, keep a close eye on the chicken. It can go from perfectly browned to burnt in seconds!
Resting Time: Allow the cutlets to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps lock in the juices, making for a juicier bite.

Make It Your Own

There are so many ways to customize your Baked Chicken Cutlets, and I encourage you to get creative! Here are some tips to help you personalize this dish.

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze breaded, uncooked chicken cutlets for up to two months. Just thaw them in the fridge before baking.
Pairing: Serve these cutlets with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Herb Variations: Try mixing in different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
Spicy Kick: Add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy crunch.

Side Dish Ideas for Baked Chicken Cutlets

When serving your Baked Chicken Cutlets, the options for delicious side dishes are abundant. Here are some ideas:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they’re a comforting complement to the crispy cutlets.
Steamed Asparagus: Bright and healthy, the slight crunch of asparagus balances the cutlets perfectly.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing give a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs and spices adds a nice contrast to the crispy chicken.
Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: Roasting carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings a rainbow of flavors to your plate, enhancing the meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a bit of crunch and pairs beautifully with the richness of the cutlets.
Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad with fresh vegetables is a nutritious side that compliments the cutlets.

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely prepare Baked Chicken Cutlets ahead of time! You can bread and freeze uncooked cutlets for up to two months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before baking. This is a fantastic way to have a quick meal ready when you’re short on time.

When it comes to sides for Baked Chicken Cutlets, the options are endless! Think creamy garlic mashed potatoes, fresh salads, or even steamed vegetables. You can also serve them in a sandwich or on top of a salad for a lighter option. The crispy texture pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors!

To store leftover Baked Chicken Cutlets, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked cutlets for future meals. If reheating, pop them back in the oven for the best texture!

Absolutely! You can customize Baked Chicken Cutlets by using different herbs. Feel free to replace the thyme with rosemary, oregano, or even Italian seasoning. This way, you can create a new flavor profile that suits your taste or the season.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Cutlets are a fantastic addition to any meal, bringing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. I encourage you to try this simple yet delicious recipe and enjoy the crispy goodness at home. Your family and friends will love it, and it’s a perfect candidate for your meal rotation!