Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets

Name: Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

I absolutely love making Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets for my family. The crispy and golden exterior combined with the savory Parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. This dish not only tastes amazing but is also simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, which complements the chicken beautifully. You won't believe how easily these cutlets can transform a regular dinner into something extraordinary.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:57:35.986Z

The first time I made Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets, I was amazed at how the cheese added depth and richness to the dish without overwhelming the chicken's natural flavors. I marinated the chicken briefly in some olive oil and herbs, which allowed it to soak up all the goodness. Even my picky eaters enjoyed it, and I quickly became known for my cutlets!

What really makes this dish shine is the breading technique. By using panko breadcrumbs alongside Parmesan, we achieve a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside. I've experimented with different seasonings and discovered that a sprinkle of Italian herbs adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy, golden crust that satisfies cravings
Savory Parmesan cheese brings incredible flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Why Proper Breading Matters

Getting the breading right is essential for achieving that beloved crispy texture. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan creates an exterior that's not only golden but wonderfully crunchy. Traditional breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, but they won't provide the same level of crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour, which will also deliver a satisfying crunch.

To achieve an even breading, it's important to ensure that your chicken cutlets are pounded to an equal thickness. This will promote uniform cooking, preventing some areas from being overcooked while others are underdone. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness. If any pieces are thinner or thicker, they may cook unevenly, risking juiciness in some parts and dryness in others.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets pair fantastically with a variety of sides. For a vibrant and nutritious meal, consider serving them alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. Simply toss your vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them on a separate baking sheet at the same temperature for a convenient one-pan dinner.

Another delightful option is to serve the cutlets atop a bed of arugula or mixed greens, drizzled with a fresh lemon vinaigrette. This adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and keeps the meal feeling light. I often include some cherry tomatoes or sliced cucumbers for added freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing as well as delicious.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Cutlets

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to have everything ready before you start, as it makes the process much smoother.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness.

Set Up a Breading Station

In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake the Cutlets

Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious cutlets with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve their crispiness, it's best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cutlets on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the crust is once again crispy. Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent dry chicken.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cutlets. Let them cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed above for optimal texture.

Making it Your Own

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets by experimenting with your favorite herbs and spices. Adding dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture can provide an authentic Italian flavor. Alternatively, a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce a hint of heat. Don’t hesitate to mix in some finely chopped parsley or basil for added freshness.

If you're looking to make these cutlets even healthier, consider using skinless turkey breast instead of chicken. Turkey has a similar texture and absorbs flavors well. Keep in mind that turkey may require a slightly longer baking time, so check for doneness to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well too! Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as they may take a bit longer.

→ Can I freeze the cutlets?

Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded cutlets before baking. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

I recommend serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta with a light sauce.

→ How do I keep the cutlets crispy?

Make sure to bake them on a wire rack placed on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around them.