Name: Baked Chicken Cutlets Recipe: Crispy and Juicy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 cup panko; ¼ cup Parmesan; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 1 egg; 1 tbsp Dijon; 1 tbsp olive oil; Optional: Parsley (lemon); Suggested Pairings: Potatoes (salad)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Baked Chicken Cutlets are a crispy, juicy main dish, perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or family meals. This oven-baked recipe, featuring thin chicken coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, delivers satisfying crunch with tender meat inside. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, this Baked Chicken Cutlets recipe offers a clean, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any plate. This recipe provides a simple oven method with pantry staples, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a go-to protein that brings flavorful, crowd-pleasing charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Baked Chicken Cutlets:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 large egg
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted potatoes, green salad
Suggested Pairings: White wine, iced tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Baking sheet, wire rack, three shallow bowls

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet; spray with cooking spray.
Pound Chicken: Place chicken between plastic wrap—pound to even ½-inch thickness.
Set Up Breading: In three bowls: (1) whisk egg with Dijon, (2) mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, (3) leave empty for coated chicken.
Coat Chicken: Dip each cutlet in egg mixture, then press into breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides. Place on the wire rack.
Brush with Oil: Lightly brush or spray tops with olive oil for golden crispiness.
Bake: Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest & Serve: Rest 3 minutes. Presented on a white ceramic platter with parsley and lemon. Serve with potatoes and salad.

Tips for Better Baked Chicken Cutlets

pound to ½-inch for even cooking and crisp texture
Use panko for a light, airy crunch
The wire rack ensures crispiness on both sides
Brush with oil to mimic frying without excess fat
Present on a white ceramic platter to showcase the golden crust
Make ahead: bread and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking
Use a thermometer—165°F prevents dry chicken
Enhance aesthetic: add bright lemon wedges for a fresh pop

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Baked Chicken Cutlets: Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
Italian-Style: Add 1 tsp dried oregano and basil to breadcrumbs.
Spicy Baked Chicken Cutlets: Add ¼ tsp cayenne to the seasoning.
Parmesan-Herb: Increase Parmesan and add 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
Air Fryer Version: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Pesto Baked Chicken Cutlets: Spread 1 tsp pesto under breadcrumbs.
Almond-Crusted: Replace panko with finely chopped almonds.
Chicken Parmesan: Top with marinara and mozzarella last 3 minutes.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked cutlets (layered with parchment) for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven.
Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Serve hot or cold in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
Pair with white wine or iced tea to complement the savory coating.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a clean, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1 cutlet each):

Calories: 300 kcal
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 620mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 36g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand (gluten-free or almond versions adjust carbs/fat). High in lean protein.

Conclusion

This Baked Chicken Cutlets recipe delivers crispy, juicy results without frying. It transforms simple chicken into a versatile favorite. Its oven-baked preparation and clean presentation make it a go-to. The golden crust and tender interior delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its flavorful, crowd-pleasing charm.