Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe | Chicken Tikki Recipe

Crispy and Delicious Perfect Chicken Cutlet Recipe

The humble chicken cutlet: a versatile blank canvas for culinary creativity. Pounded thin and coated in a crispy crust, it can be pan-fried, baked, or even air-fried for a healthier option. 

This recipe will guide you through the essential steps to achieve perfectly cooked, golden-brown chicken cutlets, ready to be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Ingredients:

• Chicken: Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Thicker breasts will provide more heft to the cutlet, while thinner ones will cook faster. (2-3 breasts, depending on size)

• Breadcrumbs: These give the signature crispy exterior. You can use classic panko breadcrumbs for a light and airy texture or opt for homemade breadcrumbs made from toasted bread for a more rustic flavor. (2 cups)

• Flour: A light dusting of flour ensures the breadcrumbs adhere properly. (1 cup)

• Eggs: Act as a binder between the flour and breadcrumbs. (2 large eggs)

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning are all excellent choices. Season to your taste!

Preparation and Cooking:

• Prep the Chicken:  Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Tip:  For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch. Place a piece of plastic wrap over each breast and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them out gently.

• Seasoning Station:  Set up three shallow dishes: one for flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another for whisked eggs, and the last for your chosen breadcrumbs.

• The Dredging Assembly Line:  Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating it evenly. Dip it next into the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, making sure it's generously coated.

• Cooking Up a Treat: Heat a thin layer of oil (olive oil or canola oil works well) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

• Rest and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, resulting in a more tender and flavorful cutlet.

Additional Tips for Delicious Taste:

• Spice it Up: For a flavorful twist, add a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumbs. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also be sprinkled on top before serving.

• Cheese Lover's Delight: Add a layer of grated Parmesan cheese between the flour and egg coating for a cheesy surprise in every bite.

• Beyond Breading: For a healthier alternative, skip the breadcrumbs and coat the chicken in crushed nuts or seeds like almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.

With these simple steps and helpful suggestions, you'll be a chicken cutlet pro in no time! This recipe offers a foundational technique that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

So get creative, fire up the stove, and enjoy this delicious and versatile dish!