🧄 Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets 🧄
These baked garlic Parmesan chicken cutlets are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor! An easy oven-baked alternative to fried chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with pasta, salad, or veggies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✔ Crispy & Flavorful – A golden Parmesan crust with garlic & herbs.
✔ Healthier Option – Baked, not fried, for a lighter but still crispy texture.
✔ Quick & Easy – Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser for both kids & adults.
✔ Versatile – Serve with pasta, salad, roasted veggies, or in a sandwich!
Ingredients 🛒
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or pre-cut chicken cutlets)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For the Coating
- ¼ cup melted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions 🥣
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep 🔥
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
2️⃣ Prepare the Coating 🧄
- In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place flour in another shallow bowl and beaten eggs in a third bowl.
3️⃣ Coat the Chicken 🍗
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If thick, slice horizontally to create thin cutlets.
- Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection 🔥
- Arrange chicken cutlets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle melted butter or olive oil over the top for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve 🍽️
- Remove from oven & let rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color & freshness.
- Serve warm with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or salad.
Pro Tips & Variations 🔥
🔥 Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
🧀 Cheesy Upgrade – Melt mozzarella or provolone on top during the last 5 minutes.
🍞 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs & flour.
🌿 Herb Swap – Try thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning instead of oregano & basil.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) ❓
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
✔ Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs add extra juiciness. Adjust baking time as needed.
2. How do I store & reheat leftovers?
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven (350°F for 10 minutes) or air fryer (5 minutes at 375°F).
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
✔ Yes! Coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
4. What sides go well with this dish?
✔ Spaghetti with marinara, Caesar salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
The Origins of This Dish 🇮🇹
This baked Parmesan chicken is inspired by classic Italian-American cuisine, similar to Chicken Parmesan but without the heavy marinara & frying. It’s a lighter, modern take on a beloved favorite!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving) 🥗
📌 Calories: 360 kcal
📌 Protein: 42g
📌 Carbs: 28g
📌 Fat: 12g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients.)
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken 🍷
🥗 Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or Mediterranean salad.
🍝 Pasta – Serve with garlic butter noodles or pesto pasta.
🥦 Roasted Veggies – Try asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
🥖 Crusty Bread – A slice of warm garlic bread to soak up the flavors!
