If you love the flavor of fried chicken Parmesan but want something lighter and easier to clean up, these Best Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are exactly what you need. Thin, tender chicken cutlets are coated in a crunchy Parmesan–panko crust, then baked until golden and crisp on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. The whole dish cooks on a single baking sheet in about 25–30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a quick family dinner.
These cutlets are incredibly versatile: serve them over pasta with marinara, in a sandwich with melted cheese and lettuce, or alongside roasted vegetables and a simple salad. The Parmesan crust adds a salty, cheesy crunch that makes them feel indulgent without any deep‑frying.
Complete Ingredient List (Serves 4)
This version is pantry‑friendly and easy to scale up for leftovers or a crowd.
For the Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets (or 6–8 pre‑cut chicken cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all‑purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
For Serving (Optional)
- Marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- Cooked pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- Melted mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: About 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4
Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper on both sides. If the cutlets are thick, you can pound them to about ¼‑inch thickness for even cooking.
Set Up the Breading Station
Place the flour in a shallow bowl or plate. In a second bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk or water. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Bread the Cutlets
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks evenly on both sides. Place the breaded cutlets on a plate or baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange the breaded cutlets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or spray them lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping the cutlets halfway through, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The coating should be crisp and the chicken juicy.
Serve
Serve the Best Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. They pair beautifully with marinara sauce and pasta, or you can top them with melted mozzarella or provolone for a classic chicken Parmesan feel.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness; they stay crunchy even after baking. For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Make a bigger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crisp. For meal prep, keep the cutlets separate from the sauce so they stay crisp.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Cutlet)
These cutlets are rich in protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the olive oil and Parmesan. The breadcrumbs add carbohydrates and a satisfying crunch. You can lighten them by using less oil, a lighter cheese, or a smaller portion size.
Why This Works So Well for TikTok and Pinterest
The Best Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are incredibly photogenic: golden, cheesy cutlets with a crisp crust, served over pasta with marinara and fresh herbs, make them pop on camera. The one‑sheet, 30‑minute timeline is perfect for short‑form video, and the “juicy & golden” hook resonates with busy home cooks. For Pinterest, focus on overhead shots of the plate with a sprinkle of cheese and herbs, and keep the background simple so the colors stand out.
Serve these cutlets with extra marinara and a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. Once you try them, you’ll understand why this easy, flavorful dinner has become such a favorite for quick weeknight meals and meal prep.
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