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Crispy golden fried chicken cutlets resting

Do You Put Egg or Flour First When Making Chicken Cutlets? A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Breading


  • Author: Anna
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Golden, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned, these crispy chicken cutlets are an irresistible dinner option. Whether served on their own, in a sandwich, or over a salad, they bring restaurant-quality crunch to your home kitchen.


Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved and pounded to 1/4-inch thickness

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for egg wash)

  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs (mixed with milk, if using), and one with breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Parmesan.

  3. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, ensuring a light, even coating. Shake off excess.

  4. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.

  5. Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.

  6. Let the breaded chicken rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes to help the coating set.

  7. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 350°F/175°C).

  8. Fry the cutlets in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).

  9. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  10. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

Notes

  1. For extra crispy cutlets, double dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps
  2. Resting the breaded chicken before frying prevents the coating from falling off
  3. For a healthier option, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through
  4. Air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Calories: Sugar: Sodium: Fat: Saturated Fat: Unsaturated Fat: Carbohydrates: Fiber: Protein: Cholesterol: