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Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Enjoy crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets made with tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful basil and Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Perfectly fried to golden perfection, these cutlets are a delicious main dish that pairs wonderfully with lemon and your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined.
  4. In three shallow dishes, prepare the breading station: Dish 1 with all-purpose flour, Dish 2 with whisked eggs, and Dish 3 with breadcrumbs mixed with the basil mixture.
  5. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and then press into the breadcrumb and basil mixture until fully coated.
  6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until hot.
  7. Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the hot oil, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
  8. Flip the chicken cutlets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  9. Transfer the cooked cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  10. Arrange the chicken cutlets on a serving platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  11. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the cutlets.
  12. Enjoy with pasta, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before breading.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.