Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are a healthier twist on the classic breaded chicken cutlets. Instead of frying, these cutlets are baked to golden perfection with a crispy garlic Parmesan coating. They’re full of flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Here’s how to make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets:

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets Recipe

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crispiness)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets:

If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner and more even in thickness. Alternatively, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness.
Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. Prepare the Breading:

In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil (if using), salt, and pepper. This will form your crispy coating.

3. Dredge the Chicken:

In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. This will be your egg wash to help the breading stick.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the tops of the cutlets with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up while baking.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Bake the chicken cutlets in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C)) and the breading is golden brown and crispy.
For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the cutlets for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

6. Serve:

Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Vegetable Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pasta: Serve over pasta with marinara sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal.
Rice: For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple rice pilaf or quinoa.

Tips for the Best Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets:

Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give these cutlets a lighter, crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too. You can also use homemade breadcrumbs for a more rustic flavor.
Flavor Boost: If you want extra garlic flavor, you can mix some minced fresh garlic into the breading or drizzle a little garlic butter over the chicken after baking.
Chicken Variations: If you don’t have boneless chicken breasts, you can use boneless chicken thighs or even chicken tenders for a different texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on thickness.
Make it a Meal: For a complete dinner, serve these cutlets with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are deliciously crispy, full of flavor, and a much lighter alternative to traditional fried chicken cutlets. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they’re perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy!