Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Looking to make a classic Italian chicken cutlet recipe? You’re in the right place. Italian chicken cutlets are a beloved staple in many households, especially those with a connection to Italian cuisine. With their crispy golden crust and tender, juicy interior, they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this Italian chicken cutlet recipe can fit the bill. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making the perfect Italian chicken cutlet recipe!

What Are Italian Chicken Cutlets?

Italian chicken cutlets are thin slices of chicken breast that are breaded and fried to perfection. The key to their irresistible taste lies in the Italian breadcrumbs and the combination of seasonings that create a flavorful crust. This Italian chicken cutlet recipe is popular not only in Italy but also in many parts of the world, where it is often enjoyed as a main course, sandwich filler, or salad topper.

A Brief History of the Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

While the exact origins of the Italian chicken cutlet recipe are hard to trace, the technique of breading and frying meat is deeply rooted in Italian cuisine. It is believed that the practice dates back to ancient times when cooks would coat meat in breadcrumbs and fry it to create a dish that was both flavorful and filling. Over the years, this method evolved, and chicken became a popular choice due to its mild flavor and tender texture.

Today, Italian chicken cutlets are a cherished dish in many households, often passed down through generations as a family recipe. Whether served as a main dish, in a sandwich, or as part of a salad, this Italian chicken cutlet recipe has become a versatile and beloved component of Italian cuisine.

Before starting to read the ingredients, you can see if the chicken cutlets are healthy.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

To create an authentic Italian chicken cutlet recipe, it’s crucial to use the right ingredients. The quality and type of ingredients you choose will directly impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts

The main ingredient in this dish is chicken breast. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they are easy to work with and have a mild flavor that pairs well with the breading and seasonings. When selecting chicken breasts, look for pieces that are similar in size and thickness to ensure even cooking.

Tip: If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier cutlet, though they may require slightly longer cooking times.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are the cornerstone of the Italian chicken cutlet recipe’s crispy exterior. Traditional Italian breadcrumbs are seasoned with herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and parsley, which add depth to the flavor. You can also use panko breadcrumbs if you prefer a lighter, crunchier texture.

Homemade Breadcrumbs: For the best flavor, consider making your own breadcrumbs. Simply take a loaf of stale Italian bread, cut it into chunks, and pulse it in a food processor until it reaches your desired consistency. Toast the breadcrumbs in the oven until golden brown and season them with herbs and spices.

Seasonings

Seasonings are what elevate the Italian chicken cutlet recipe from a simple fried piece of chicken to a flavorful Italian dish. The most common seasonings include:

Italian Herbs: Oregano, basil, and parsley are the classics. They bring a fresh, aromatic quality to the breading.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle but important depth of flavor.
Onion Powder: Enhances the savory notes of the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
Tip: For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

Cheese

Cheese is a must for any authentic Italian chicken cutlet recipe. Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are ideal choices because they add a rich, savory note to the breading that complements the chicken perfectly.

Tip: Mix the cheese directly into the breadcrumbs to ensure an even distribution of flavor.

Eggs and Flour

Eggs and flour are essential for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken. The flour creates a dry surface on the chicken that the egg wash can adhere to, while the egg wash helps the breadcrumbs stick and form a solid crust during frying.

Tip: Season the flour with a little salt and pepper to add an extra layer of flavor.

Oil

The type of oil you use for frying is crucial in this Italian chicken cutlet recipe. Olive oil is traditional and imparts a rich flavor to the cutlets, but if you prefer a higher smoke point oil, avocado oil is a great alternative. Both oils have a clean flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.

Tip: Avoid using oils with strong flavors, like coconut or peanut oil, as they can alter the taste of the cutlets. Learn more about the health benefits of olive oil.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Before you start cooking your Italian chicken cutlet recipe, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment on hand. Proper preparation is key to a smooth cooking process.

Cutting Board

A sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping the chicken in your Italian chicken cutlet recipe. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate the entire chicken breast, so you have plenty of space to work.

Meat Mallet

A meat mallet is used to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures that the cutlets cook evenly and have a consistent texture throughout.

Tip: If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet.

Frying Pan

A large frying pan is ideal for cooking multiple cutlets at once. Look for a pan with a heavy bottom that distributes heat evenly to prevent hot spots.

Tip: Non-stick pans are great for frying cutlets because they help prevent the breading from sticking to the pan.

Tongs

Tongs are essential for flipping and handling the cutlets during frying. They allow you to turn the chicken without damaging the crispy coating.

Wire Rack

A wire rack is useful for draining excess oil from the cutlets after frying. It allows air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy while it cools.

Preparing the Chicken Cutlets for the Perfect Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

The key to perfectly cooked Italian chicken cutlets is proper preparation. This step-by-step guide will help you achieve tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust.

Selecting and Preparing the Chicken Breast

Start by selecting chicken breasts that are similar in size. This ensures that the cutlets cook evenly and that each piece has a consistent texture.

Trimming the Chicken: Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken breasts. Removing these can help prevent the cutlets from becoming tough during cooking.
Cutting the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are large, you can cut them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will also help them cook more quickly and evenly.
Pounding the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This not only ensures even cooking but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a more tender cutlet.

Seasoning the Chicken for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Seasoning the chicken before breading is an important step that adds flavor directly to the meat in your Italian chicken cutlet recipe.

Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the chicken.
Additional Seasonings: For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or onion powder on the chicken before breading. These seasonings will complement the flavors in the breadcrumbs and create a more cohesive dish.

Tip: Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for a few minutes before breading. This gives the salt time to penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor.

The Perfect Breading Process for an Authentic Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Achieving the perfect crispy coating on your Italian chicken cutlets requires careful attention to the breading process. Each step plays a crucial role in creating that signature crunch.

Dredging in Flour

The first step in the breading process of your Italian chicken cutlet recipe is dredging the chicken in flour. This creates a dry surface on the chicken that the egg wash can adhere to.

Seasoned Flour: Start by seasoning the flour with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.
Dredging: Lightly coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour. Make sure to shake off any excess flour, as too much can create a heavy coating that doesn’t crisp up properly.

Tip: Use a shallow dish or plate for the flour to make dredging easier and less messy.

Egg Wash for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

The egg wash is what helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. It creates a sticky surface that holds the breading in place during frying.

Beaten Eggs: Crack two eggs into a shallow dish and beat them with a fork until well combined. You can add a splash of milk or water to thin the mixture slightly, making it easier to coat the chicken.
Coating the Chicken: Dip each piece of floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before moving on to the next step.

Tip: For an extra rich and golden coating, you can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to the egg wash.

Breadcrumb Coating for the Best Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

The final step in the breading process of your Italian chicken cutlet recipe is coating the chicken in breadcrumbs. This is where the flavor and texture of the cutlets really come together.

Seasoned Breadcrumbs: In a shallow dish, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and chopped fresh parsley. The Parmesan adds a savory note, while the herbs and spices create a flavorful crust.
Pressing the Breadcrumbs: Press each piece of chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Use your hands to press the breadcrumbs into the chicken, ensuring they adhere well.

Tip: For an even crispier coating, you can double-bread the chicken by dipping it back into the egg wash and then into the breadcrumbs a second time.

Tips for a Crispier Coating in Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Use Panko: If you prefer an extra crispy coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional Italian breadcrumbs. Panko is coarser and creates a lighter, crunchier texture.
Let It Rest: After breading the chicken, let it rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before frying. This allows the breading to set, which helps it stay intact during cooking.
Avoid Overcrowding: When frying the cutlets, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Frying too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in a soggy coating.

Frying the Chicken Cutlets in Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

The frying technique is crucial to achieving that signature golden crust. With the right method, you’ll end up with perfectly crispy Italian chicken cutlets that are tender and juicy on the inside.

Preheating the Oil

Start by preheating the oil in your frying pan. The oil needs to be hot enough to fry the chicken quickly, creating a crispy exterior without drying out the meat.

Choosing the Right Oil: As mentioned earlier, olive oil is traditional, but avocado oil is a great alternative with a higher smoke point. Heat enough oil in the pan to cover the bottom by about 1 inch.
Testing the Oil: To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into the pan. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within 30 seconds, the oil is ready. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F.

Tip: If the oil starts to smoke, it’s too hot. Lower the heat slightly and allow it to cool before adding the chicken.

Frying Techniques for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Frying the chicken properly is key to achieving that perfect crispy coating in your Italian chicken cutlet recipe.

Frying in Batches: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and cause the chicken to steam rather than fry, resulting in a soggy coating.
Flipping the Cutlets: Cook each cutlet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip the cutlets gently, being careful not to disturb the coating.
Draining the Chicken: Once the cutlets are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Tip: For extra crispy cutlets, you can finish them in a preheated 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes after frying. This helps set the crust and ensures the chicken is cooked through.

Avoiding Common Frying Mistakes in Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Don’t Use Cold Chicken: Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before frying. Cold chicken can lower the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking.
Use Enough Oil: Make sure there’s enough oil in the pan to fully submerge the bottom of the cutlets. Shallow frying won’t create an even crust.
Don’t Rush: Patience is key when frying. Allow the cutlets to cook thoroughly on one side before flipping them to avoid disrupting the breading.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Italian chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and sauces. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or using them as part of another dish, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Classic Sides for the Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Italian chicken cutlets are often served with simple, classic sides that complement their rich, savory flavor.

Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment to chicken cutlets. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a balanced meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes add color and flavor to your plate. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory chicken.
Pasta: For a more substantial meal, serve the cutlets with a side of pasta. Spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and oil) or simple marinara pasta are great options that don’t overpower the chicken.

Sauces for Your Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

While Italian chicken cutlets are delicious on their own, adding a sauce can take them to the next level. Here are some popular options:

Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that pairs beautifully with chicken cutlets. For a quick chicken parmigiana, top each cutlet with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Lemon Butter Sauce: For a lighter option, drizzle the cutlets with a lemon butter sauce made from melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The acidity of the lemon brightens the flavors of the dish.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli is a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the crispy chicken. Serve it on the side as a dipping sauce or spread it on a sandwich.

Wine Pairings for the Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Pairing the right wine with Italian chicken cutlets can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some recommendations:

Pinot Grigio: This light, crisp white wine has enough acidity to cut through the richness of the fried chicken, making it an excellent choice.
Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine, Chardonnay pairs well with the savory flavors of the cutlets, especially if you’re serving them with a rich sauce like garlic aioli.
Chianti: If you prefer red wine, a medium-bodied Chianti is a good option. Its bright acidity and hints of cherry and spice complement the flavors of the chicken.
Learn more about how to pair wine with chicken. Wine Folly’s Guide to Wine and Food Pairing.

Variations of the Classic Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

While the classic Italian chicken cutlet recipe is perfect as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up. Here are some ideas to inspire your cooking:

Gluten-Free Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily adapt this Italian chicken cutlet recipe to suit your needs.

Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Replace the traditional Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many stores carry gluten-free options that are just as flavorful and crispy.
Gluten-Free Flour: Use gluten-free flour, such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend, in place of regular flour for dredging the chicken.

Tip: Some gluten-free breadcrumbs can be a bit denser than regular breadcrumbs. If this is the case, you can pulse them in a food processor to achieve a finer texture.

Baked Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

For a lighter option, try baking the chicken cutlets instead of frying them. This method reduces the amount of oil needed and results in a slightly healthier dish.

Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Baking the Cutlets: After breading the chicken, place the cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Spray or drizzle them with a little olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Cooking Time: Bake the cutlets for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and cooked through.

Tip: For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Stuffed Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

For a more indulgent dish, try stuffing the chicken cutlets with cheese, prosciutto, or spinach. This variation adds a delicious surprise inside each cutlet.

Preparing the Filling: If using cheese, slice it into thin pieces. If using prosciutto or spinach, make sure they’re prepped and ready to go.
Stuffing the Chicken: After pounding the chicken to an even thickness, place a slice of cheese or a few leaves of spinach in the center. Fold the chicken over to encase the filling and secure it with toothpicks if needed.
Breading and Cooking: Bread and cook the stuffed cutlets as you would the classic version. Be sure to cook them a little longer to ensure the filling is heated through.

Tip: Serve the stuffed cutlets with a simple marinara sauce or lemon butter sauce to complement the flavors.

Spicy Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

If you like a little heat, try adding some spice to your Italian chicken cutlet recipe. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Spicy Breadcrumbs: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Spicy Sauce: Serve the cutlets with a spicy marinara sauce or a sriracha aioli for an extra layer of heat.

Tip: For a smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika in the breadcrumb mixture.

FAQs About the Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe

How do you keep chicken cutlets crispy?

To keep cutlets crispy, avoid covering them immediately after cooking. Rest them on a wire rack instead of paper towels, as this allows air to circulate around the chicken and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.

Can I prepare chicken cutlets in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cutlets in advance. Bread them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Fry or bake them just before serving.

What’s the difference between chicken cutlets and chicken parmigiana?

Chicken parmigiana is a variation of chicken cutlets. It involves topping the cutlets with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baking or broiling them until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Chicken cutlets are often served plain or with a lighter sauce.

Can you freeze Italian chicken cutlets?

Yes, Italian chicken cutlets freeze well. After breading the cutlets, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cutlets to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What oil is best for frying chicken cutlets?

Olive oil is traditional and imparts a rich flavor to the cutlets, but avocado oil or vegetable oil with a high smoke point is also a good choice. Avoid using oils with strong flavors, like coconut or peanut oil, as they can alter the taste of the cutlets.

Conclusion

Italian chicken cutlets are a classic dish that’s easy to make and loved by all. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this Italian chicken cutlet recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, these cutlets are versatile enough to be served as a main course, in sandwiches, or as part of a salad. Enjoy the process of cooking and don’t hesitate to make it your own!