Description
This recipe for Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets offers a crispy, flavorful twist on classic chicken cutlets. Coated in a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, and fresh basil, these cutlets are pan-fried to golden perfection and make for a deliciously simple and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Breading
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Egg Wash and Seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking
- Olive oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Set Up Breading Station: Beat the eggs in one shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, and chopped basil for the breading mixture.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-breadcrumb-basil mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating well.
- Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, preparing for frying.
- Cook Chicken: Place the breaded cutlets carefully into the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the cutlets are golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.
- Drain and Rest: Transfer cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow cutlets to rest for a few minutes for juiciness.
- Serve: Optionally serve with lemon wedges to add a fresh, tangy brightness to the dish. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets!
Notes
- Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Use fresh basil for a vibrant, aromatic flavor; dried basil can be substituted but reduce quantity by half.
- For healthier preparation, you can bake the cutlets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Lemon wedges are optional but add a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy coating.
