Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

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If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dinner, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are the answer! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Cheesy: The Parmesan-panko coating creates a golden, crunchy crust, while the melted mozzarella adds gooey goodness.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying keeps this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Serve with pasta, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean protein that forms the base of the dish.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, salty flavor to the coating.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy, crunchy texture.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Brings aromatic, savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – Adds herby, savory notes to the coating.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances and balances the flavors.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the chicken brown and crisp in the oven.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Tricks

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan has better flavor and texture than pre-grated.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between the chicken cutlets to ensure even browning.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Herb Boost: Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Cheesy Twist: Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar cheese.

Pairing Suggestions

• Pasta: Serve with spaghetti marinara or fettuccine Alfredo.
• Salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or arugula salad.
• Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or garlic mashed potatoes make great sides.
• Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Freeze: Freeze baked chicken cutlets (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat, then add cheese before serving.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as thighs may take longer to cook.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I air fry these chicken cutlets?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are a crispy, cheesy delight with a savory garlic and herb coating. Baked to perfection and topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is a flavorful, healthier alternative to fried chicken cutlets, perfect for

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken cutlets)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory, nutty crust)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• 2 tsp garlic powder (for bold flavor)
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs (for binding the coating)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a melty topping)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for a golden finish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
   • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
   • Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake:
   • Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken to help it crisp up.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is golden brown.
5. Add Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
   • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

• For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep—this dish is always a hit!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

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