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Crispy baked chicken cutlets on a plate with lemon wedges and parsley.

baked chicken cutlet recipes​

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Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor—this is one of the best baked chicken cutlet recipes for a healthy, no-fry meal ready in just 35 minutes!​
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded thin for even cooking)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs adds extra crispiness
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory crust
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon paprika adds color and a subtle smoky depth
  • ½ teaspoon salt balances the seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper for a mild kick
  • For the Egg Wash:
  • 2 large eggs helps the coating stick
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard adds a slight tang and depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon milk helps create a smooth egg wash

Optional for Extra Flavor:

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning for a herbaceous touch
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder adds extra savory depth
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat boost

For Baking:

  • Olive oil spray helps the cutlets achieve a golden brown crust
  • Cooking spray or parchment paper prevents sticking
  • Wire rack optional but recommended (keeps the bottom crispy)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:

  • No panko? Regular breadcrumbs work but panko gives the best crunch.
  • Dairy-free option? Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a similar umami boost.
  • Gluten-free alternative? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Want extra crispiness? Toast the breadcrumbs for a few minutes before coating the chicken.

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top (this helps air circulate for even crisping).
  • Slice each boneless, skinless chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. If needed, place the cutlets between plastic wrap and pound them lightly with a meat mallet for uniform thickness.

Set Up the Breading Station

  • Prepare three shallow bowls:
  • Flour (Optional) – If you want extra crispiness, lightly coat the cutlets in flour before dipping in the egg wash.
  • Egg Wash – In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Dijon mustard, and milk until smooth. This helps the coating stick.
  • Breadcrumb Mixture – In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Bread the Chicken

  • Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess.
  • Place the breaded cutlets onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for better crisping.

Bake to Perfection

  • Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to help create a golden crust.
  • Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cutlets should be golden brown and crispy with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Rest and Serve

  • Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the cutlets tender.
  • Enjoy as a main dish, slice over salads, or serve in sandwiches and wraps.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Sugar: 2g  
Keyword baked chicken cutlets, crispy chicken cutlets, healthy baked chicken