Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will have everyone at the table smiling, then you must try these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets! This recipe has been a go-to for me on busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The combination of golden, crispy breading and juicy chicken is simply irresistible, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up in under 30 minutes!

These cutlets are not just tasty; they’re also versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides. Whether you’re serving them with a fresh salad, some roasted veggies, or even tucked into a sandwich, they’re sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this meal on the table in just 27 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves crispy chicken, making this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Easy Clean-Up: With parchment paper lining the baking sheet, clean-up is a breeze!
• Endless Versatility: Enjoy these cutlets as is or dress them up with your favorite sauces and sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets is simple. You likely already have many of these wholesome items in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Cutlets

• 2 (5-6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk – you can use non-dairy
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – you can use gluten free
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Olive oil cooking spray

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might like to try:

• Add Some Spice: Mix in some cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out parmesan for mozzarella or even nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile.
• Try Different Proteins: Use turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist!
• Herb It Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil mixed into the breadcrumbs for added freshness.

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is essential—this helps the cutlets cook evenly while keeping them crispy and makes clean-up super easy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Next, slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise. This will give you nice, even pieces that cook quickly. Cover them with plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4 inch thick using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin. This step ensures uniform cooking and tenderness—nobody likes dry chicken!

Step 3: Set Up Your Dipping Stations

In one shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. In another dish, mix the breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These two bowls are where all the magic happens!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken cutlet first into the egg mixture and then press it into the breadcrumb mix. Make sure to coat them well—you want every bite packed with flavor! Place each coated piece on your prepared baking sheet without overlapping them.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spray each cutlet lightly with olive oil cooking spray—this will help achieve that beautiful golden crust we all love! Bake in your preheated oven for about 17-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they get evenly crispy on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Once done baking, allow the chicken cutlets to rest on the pan for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juiciness! Now they’re ready to be enjoyed hot from the oven.

I hope this recipe warms your home as much as it has warmed mine! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets

These tips will help you achieve the perfect crispy oven baked chicken cutlets that are sure to impress!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavor of your chicken cutlets, making each bite more delicious. Opt for high-quality breadcrumbs for a better texture and taste.
• Pound the chicken evenly: Ensuring your chicken is the same thickness allows for even cooking. This prevents some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.
• Don’t skip the olive oil spray: Spraying your breaded cutlets with olive oil before baking creates a beautiful golden crust. It helps achieve that crispy finish without frying, keeping it healthier.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Give each cutlet enough space on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate. This ensures they get crispy all around instead of steaming each other.
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your chicken cutlets to sit for a few minutes after baking keeps them juicy and prevents them from becoming soggy when plated.

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets

Serving these crispy oven baked chicken cutlets can be as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an impressive meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped finely, these herbs add a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice over the cutlets brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick that balances out the richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until tender add both nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Crisp garden salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs and spices offers a nutty flavor and is packed with protein, making it a hearty side option.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your deliciously crispy oven baked chicken cutlets in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets are perfect for meal prep! They’re not only delicious but also versatile, making them a fantastic addition to your weekly menu. Here’s how to store them to keep the flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken cutlets to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each cutlet individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes.
• If using a skillet, add a little olive oil and heat over medium until warmed and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the crispy oven baked chicken cutlets?

Yes, you absolutely can! Chicken thighs will provide juicy cutlets with great flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.

What should I serve with my crispy oven baked chicken cutlets?

These cutlets pair wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or pasta. Consider adding a dipping sauce like marinara or a light garlic aioli for extra flavor!

Can I make crispy oven baked chicken cutlets gluten-free?

Definitely! Just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets! They truly are special—quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, I’m sure they will become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations! Happy cooking!