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There’s something about the smell of fresh basil that takes me back to my childhood in Chicago, where my Polish-American family would gather around the kitchen table for Sunday dinners. My mom and babcia would be bustling around, their aprons dusted with flour and their hands busy with preparations. One of my favorite dishes from those days was a simple yet delicious chicken cutlet, and today, I’ve given it a twist with my parmesan basil chicken cutlets. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of my childhood with a fresh, modern flair that my family just can’t get enough of.

Picture this: a golden, crispy crust that gives way to a tender, juicy interior, all infused with the aromatic blend of parmesan and basil. It’s a dish that’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a comforting reminder of home. Whether you’re looking to impress your family at dinner or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, these parmesan basil chicken cutlets are sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just like they have in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These parmesan basil chicken cutlets are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time. The crispy parmesan coating adds a savory crunch, while the basil infuses the chicken with a fresh, herbaceous flavor. Plus, this dish is high in protein and can easily be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these cutlets as a main dish with your favorite sides, or slice them up for a delicious salad topping. They’re also perfect for meal prep, as they reheat beautifully and make for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
2 large eggs
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking.
Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, basil, and garlic powder.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally into the parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cook each cutlet for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Transfer the cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with flavor and nutrition
Perfect for any occasion
Customizable to your taste preferences
Budget-friendly ingredients

Expert Tips for Success

For the crispiest cutlets, make sure your oil is hot before adding the chicken. This will prevent the coating from becoming soggy. If you’re unsure, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden quickly.

Don’t skip the resting step after frying. Allowing the cutlets to rest on a paper towel-lined plate helps remove excess oil and keeps them crispy.

If you’re making these ahead of time, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Amazon Affiliate Cooking Tools

When I make these parmesan basil chicken cutlets, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for slicing the chicken breasts perfectly. And to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection, I rely on the MEATER SE Smart Meat Thermometer. These tools not only make the process smoother but also ensure that my cutlets turn out just right every time.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the basil for other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to add a bit of heat, try mixing in some red pepper flakes with the parmesan coating.

For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pecorino or asiago, for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

These parmesan basil chicken cutlets are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic meal, pair them with a side of roasted vegetables and a simple green salad. They also make a delicious sandwich filling—just add some fresh mozzarella and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving these cutlets with a side of creamy risotto or buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting and elegant meal.

FAQs

Can I make these cutlets in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cutlets up to the frying step and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Can I freeze these cutlets?

Absolutely! Freeze the breaded but uncooked cutlets on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts

These parmesan basil chicken cutlets are more than just a meal; they’re a way to bring a little bit of my family’s tradition into your home. I hope they bring you as much joy and comfort as they do for us. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and enjoy cooking with love and a dash of humor!

I hope you loved making these parmesan basil chicken cutlets—they’re crispy, flavorful, and just the kind of comforting dish that makes dinner feel special. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, check out these favorites: Chicken Parmesan, Lemon Garlic Chicken, and Creamy Basil Pasta. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!

Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets 4