10 Chicken Cutlet Recipes for a Quick and Healthy Dinner

Chicken cutlets bring dinner together in no time. Thanks to their thin cut, they cook quicker and more evenly than chicken breast halves — perfect for busy weeknights. 

This versatile protein is like an elevated, grownup version of chicken nuggets and pairs well with practically any side dish. Whether you fry or bake them, a crispy cutlet is hard to beat. Here are 10 simple and delicious chicken cutlet recipes to try next.

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1. Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets

These Italian breaded chicken cutlets are ready in just 30 minutes. If working with a boneless skinless chicken breast, cut it into thin slices using a sharp knife (you can also buy pre-cut cutlets at the grocery store). Use the classic trio to coat your chicken: flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs sprinkled with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Serve with lemon wedges and a side salad to balance the richness.   

Try this recipe from The Mediterranean Dish.

2. Bruschetta Chicken Cutlet

Bruschetta chicken is a fun main-dish twist on a classic appetizer. Prepare the bruschetta topping with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Spoon on top of pan-seared chicken cutlets and drizzle with a balsamic glaze for tang. This is the perfect dish to serve on a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula. 

Try this recipe from Little Sunny Kitchen.

3. Paleo Crispy Chicken Cutlet

Dinner gets a paleo and gluten-free treatment thanks to this chicken cutlet recipe. Almond and coconut flour come together to create the crispy coating. Fry the cutlets in coconut oil and ghee until perfectly golden brown (or use avocado oil if you prefer). Serve with a simple salad and smashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.

Try this recipe from Paleo Running Momma.

4. Chicken Cutlets with Pesto 

Skip the frying and opt for an oven bake instead. Pesto replaces eggs in this chicken cutlet coating, lending an herby twist. Use Romano cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, which adds sharpness. Keep it simple and serve with fresh veggies like green beans or asparagus. 

Try this recipe from Sweet Savory and Steph.

Related: 11 Healthy (and Delicious) Chicken Thigh Recipes

5. Baked Chicken Parmesan

Whole wheat breadcrumbs add fiber to this healthier version of chicken parmesan to the table, and baking instead of frying cuts back on excess oil. Top the cutlets with marinara and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. Serve with a side of chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles.

Try this recipe from The Clean Eating Couple.

6. Parmesan Crusted Chicken

With just four key ingredients, you can plate these low-carb chicken cutlets in less than 15 minutes. For all the cheese lovers out there, substitute Parmesan cheese for flour and breadcrumbs during the dredging process. The result is the crispiest “crust” you can imagine — and it has just 1 gram of carbs. Serve with warm tomato sauce for dipping, and a simple side of roasted broccoli or baked zucchini.

Try this recipe from Whole Lotta Yum.

7. Sumac Chicken with Lemon Tahini Sauce

Sumac is a spice made from Middle-Eastern berries and adds tang and a red hue to any dish. Mix up your chicken cutlet recipes by adding sumac and tahini sauce. Flavors like lemon and Dijon mustard blend well with the sour flavors from the spiced chicken. Serve over a bed of spinach and top with extra tahini dressing.

Try this recipe from Happily From Scratch.

8.  Chicken Katsu

Japanese-inspired Chicken Katsu over rice is crunchy, hearty, and full of umami thanks to a rich soy-based sauce. You can fry the panko-breaded chicken cutlets in neutral oil as is traditional to the recipe, or air fry for a lighter meal — you’ll get a crispy chicken cutlet either way. Top with fresh scallions for a pop of color. 

Try this recipe from Tiffy Cooks.

9. Chicken Cutlet with Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles are a healthy and gluten-free alternative to pasta — you can even do half and half using angel hair and zucchini noodles if you’re just looking to cut a few carbs. Pound the chicken cutlets to tenderize, then sear in a skillet until golden. Top the chicken with a creamy sauce made with shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, white wine, and a little heavy cream (you can always sub in coconut cream instead).

Try this recipe from Bonicelli Cooking Club.

10. Mediterranean Chicken Cutlets

This Mediterranean chicken skillet is a simple meal bursting with fresh flavor. The savory capers and Kalamata olives contrast the light and creamy sauce made with feta cheese, tomatoes, and white wine. Buttered noodles or steamed vegetables would work great on the side. 

Try this recipe from Salt & Lavender.

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