There’s nothing quite like the smell of crispy chicken sizzling in the pan, right? It reminds me of family dinners where laughter filled the air. That’s why Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets are trending everywhere! Folks on TikTok and Pinterest can’t get enough of this cozy dish that’s simple yet oh-so-delicious.
These golden cutlets are juicy, coated with a crunchy layer of Parmesan and fragrant basil. It’s like your grandma’s version but quicker and easier. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip this up any night of the week. Full details in the blog!
In my family, this dish brings us together. I remember my mom teaching me to cook a similar meal chaotic but fun! It’s all about the memories we create. Believe me, I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
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Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets: Easy and Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Standard
Description
Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets make a delicious family meal featuring crispy basil-coated chicken with fresh lemon butter flavors. Perfect for an easy dinner, these Crispy Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets bring together Italian Parmesan Basil Chicken and juicy Easy Parmesan Basil Chicken. Enjoy a quick Parmesan Basil Chicken Dinner that’s golden and flavorful every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1 egg beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Even out the thickness of the chicken breasts using a meat mallet to promote uniform cooking.
- Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides to season well.
- Prepare three separate bowls with flour, beaten egg, and the mix of breadcrumbs Parmesan and basil for breading.
- Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour then in the egg and then thoroughly coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and cook the chicken cutlets for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked.
- Transfer cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil.
- Serve while hot alongside your preferred side dishes and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, consider adding crushed nuts to the breadcrumb mixture
- These cutlets freeze well
- ensure they’re wrapped tightly for up to 3 months
- Experiment with different cheeses to discover your favorite flavor combinations
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets are more than just a mealthey’re like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will in yours as well! It’s the comforting simplicity of this dish that brings family members together, sparking laughter and stories over a delicious meal.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and quick to prepare when unexpected guests arrive. It strikes a wonderful balance between being special and familiar, making it great for everyonefrom toddlers to grandparents. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can create something truly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients Breakdown
| Ingredient | Purpose | Possible Swaps |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Main protein source that keeps the cutlets juicy | Thighs for richer flavor, or turkey cutlets |
| Breadcrumbs | Provides the crunchy coating | Panko for extra crispiness, crushed crackers |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | Adds flavor and crispiness | Any hard cheese like Pecorino or a dairy-free alternative |
| Fresh basil, chopped | Brings a fresh, aromatic touch | Dried basil (use less, as it’s more potent) |
| Egg | Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs | Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) |
| All-purpose flour | Helps the breadcrumbs stick | Whole wheat flour or cornstarch |

Simple Steps to Make It
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by pounding the chicken breasts with a meat mallet to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken to enhance its flavor.
- Breading Station: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and basil.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then coat it in the egg, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture. This forms that golden, crispy outer layer everyone loves.
- Fry: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the cutlets for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain: Transfer the cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Easy Customizations
One of the best things about these chicken cutlets is how easily you can customize them with a few simple tweaks.
- Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra crunch.
- Mix in different seasonings or herbs like oregano or thyme to change up the flavor.
- For a healthier option or if you’re short on time, bake the cutlets in the oven. Simply drizzle with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden.
How to Serve & Store
These golden, crispy chicken cutlets make a wonderful main dish alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. They’re also delicious as leftovers in wraps or sandwiches, perfect for lunch the next day!
| Storage Tips | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|
| Store leftover cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. | Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness. |
| For longer storage, freeze the cooked cutlets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. | Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. |
Expert Says
Using freshly grated Parmesan in your Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets not only enhances the flavor but also improves the texture. The fat in the cheese adds moisture, helping create a crispy crust while keeping the chicken juicy. Plus, Parmesan is rich in protein and calcium, making it a nutritious choice.
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The Quest for the Ultimate Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets
After several attempts that ended in kitchen mishapsoverly salty, too soggy, and even some burnsI finally perfected these Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets. Each failure taught me something new, and now the golden, crispy cutlets bring my family running to the table, filling our home with laughter and warmth.
FAQs ( Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets )
How do I get my chicken cutlets crispy?
For crispy cutlets, ensure you pat the chicken dry before coating. Use a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a flavorful crunch, and fry in hot oil to create that golden crust. Cooking in batches helps maintain the oil temperature.
Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts work perfectly for this recipe. Just slice them into even cutlets for uniform cooking. Alternatively, you can pound them to achieve a consistent thickness.
What should I serve with Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Garlic mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish can also complement the flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
How do I store leftover cutlets?
Store any leftover cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Parmesan-Basil Chicken Cutlets?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked cutlets. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months; reheat them directly from frozen.

Conclusion
So, there you have it! These Crispy Parmesan Basil Chicken Cutlets come together quickly, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or for impressing without the stress. The delightful crunch from the Parmesan will have everyone asking for seconds, and the aroma? Pure comfort! You’ll love the results, I promise.
Want to personalize them? Try adding a touch of lemon zest or a sprinkle of oregano. If you have leftovers (though that might be a challenge!), reheating in the oven keeps them crispy. A tip I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to serve them alongside a fresh salad for a burst of flavor and color!
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Did you grow up with a dish like this? Share your photos and stories in the comments! Remember to save or share this recipe with loved ones because every meal shared is a moment cherished. Happy cooking, friends!










