There’s something absolutely heartwarming about the sound of chicken sizzling in a hot pan. These Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma that’s hard to resist. They’ve become a beloved weeknight staple for busy families and cozy dinners alike!
Picture juicy, breaded chicken finished with a crispy Parmesan crust and fresh basil. This dish comes together with just a few pantry staples, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes perfect for those bustling evenings. It’s like a hug from a fabulous Italian restaurant, but you can whip it up at home without fuss.
Started making these cutlets back in 2015 when I was juggling my kids’ activities and dinner prep. The first time my husband took a bite, he grinned and said it was like a little piece of Italy at our table. The key I discovered? A quick sear before finishing in the oven for that perfect golden crisp. That technique has become a staple in our weeknight meals!
Yesica Andrews
Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Enjoy a delightful meal with this Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe, perfect for anyone seeking Crispy Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets that are full of flavor. This Easy Parmesan Basil Chicken dish combines fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating to create a satisfying and golden crust. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a family favorite Basil Parmesan chicken recipe, these juicy cutlets will not disappoint.
Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently flatten them to an even thickness with a meat mallet.
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Prepare three shallow dishes: one filled with flour, the next with the beaten egg, and the last with a mix of breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese and basil.
Dredge each chicken breast in flour first, then coat it in the egg wash, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add enough olive oil to coat the bottom.
Cook the coated chicken cutlets for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through.
Transfer the cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the cutlets immediately alongside your favorite sides and enjoy the crispy tender flavors.
Notes
For a crunchier texture try adding crushed nuts to the breadcrumb mixture. These cutlets can be frozen for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Family Favorite: These Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets are always a hit at the dinner table; everyone will be asking for seconds!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight.
Nostalgic Comfort: With their crispy coating and savory herbs, every bite reminds you of cozy family dinners.
Versatile Dish: Serve them with pasta, a salad, or even on a bun for a delightful chicken sandwich!
Key Ingredients and Tools
Here’s what you need for these Crispy Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets:
Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless breasts for juicy cutlets.
Breadcrumbs: 1 cup creates the crispy coating everyone loves.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated for a rich flavor.
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup chopped, adding freshness and aroma.
Egg and Flour: For the classic breading process.
Olive Oil: For frying extra virgin works best.
Tools: You’ll need a frying pan, meat mallet, mixing bowls, and a spatula.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Begin by using a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Set up a breading station:
First bowl: all-purpose flour.
Second bowl: a beaten egg.
Third bowl: a mix of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil.
Coat each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat, then fry the cutlets for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through.
Once done, transfer the cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Troubleshooting and Tweaks
Cook Time Trouble? If the cutlets are browning too quickly, lower the heat to medium-low to ensure they cook through without burning.
Extra Crunch? Add crushed nuts to the breadcrumb mixture for an exciting twist on the classic texture.
Basil Not Available? You can swap it out for other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano if you’d like a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets are incredibly versatile! Here are some comforting ideas:
Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty meal.
Slice and place on a salad with your favorite dressing for a delightful twist.
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your cutlets fresh:
Storage Method
Duration
Refrigerator (airtight container)
3-4 days
Freezer (wrapped tightly)
Up to 3 months
When reheating, a quick stint in the oven will help retain that delicious crispiness!
Expert Says
When preparing Parmesan basil chicken cutlets, remember that the secret to a crispy crust lies in the moisture content of the chicken. Patting the cutlets dry helps the breading adhere better and creates a delightful texture. Additionally, the umami from parmesan amplifies the flavor, making each bite truly savory.
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The Path to Delicious Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets
Perfecting my Parmesan-basil chicken cutlets felt like a culinary adventure. After a few amusing mishaps, including once forgetting the breadcrumbs entirely, I finally struck the right balance of flavors and textures. Each crispy bite reminds me that patience and practice really do lead to something special in the kitchen.
FAQs ( Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets )
How do I get my chicken cutlets crispy?
For crispy cutlets, ensure you pat the chicken dry before coating. Use a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a flavorful crunch, and fry in hot oil to create that golden crust. Cooking in batches helps maintain the oil temperature.
Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts work perfectly for this recipe. Just slice them into even cutlets for uniform cooking. Alternatively, you can pound them to achieve a consistent thickness.
What should I serve with Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Garlic mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish can also complement the flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
How do I store leftover cutlets?
Store any leftover cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked cutlets. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months; reheat them directly from frozen.
Conclusion
These Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets are a delightful blend of crispy goodness and juicy flavor that will make your weeknight dinners shine. You’ll love how the savory aroma fills your kitchen it’s pure comfort food magic, ready in just 30 minutes!
Feel free to swap out the basil for any fresh herbs you have on hand, or toss in some lemon zest for a bright twist. And if you have leftovers, a quick reheating in the oven keeps that crispy edge intact a trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen!
I’d love to see your versions of this family favorite! Did you grow up with something similar? Share photos or memories below, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next cozy dinner. Cooking is about creating cherishable moments, so let’s keep the warmth alive!
