Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo

When it comes to comforting Italian cuisine, few dishes can rival the deliciousness of Italian Chicken Cutlets, known as Cotoletta di Pollo. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, making it a delightful centerpiece on any dinner table. Whether served with a side of pasta, salad, or simply enjoyed on its own, these cutlets are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo lies in their versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese creates a golden, crunchy exterior, while the moist chicken inside ensures each bite is tender and juicy. Plus, these cutlets are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, making them an essential recipe in your culinary repertoire.

What You’ll Need

• 4 slices chicken breast – Each slice should be about 1-inch thick for optimal cooking.
• 2 large eggs – These will help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 85g panko breadcrumbs – The key to achieving that irresistible crunch!
• 2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano cheese – Finely grated for a rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – Minced to add a touch of freshness.
• 1 garlic clove – Finely grated for aromatic depth.
• Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper – To taste, enhancing all the wonderful flavors.
• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – For frying and drizzling.
• 1 lemon – Cut into wedges for a zesty finish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large mixing bowl – For mixing the egg and breadcrumbs.
• Shallow dish – To hold the panko breadcrumb mixture.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – To flatten the chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Skillet or frying pan – A large one will allow you to cook multiple cutlets at once.
• Spatula – For flipping the chicken cutlets with ease.

How to Prepare Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about ½ inch thick. This will ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sea salt, and freshly-cracked black pepper. In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, minced parsley, and grated garlic.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of flattened chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Repeat this for all chicken slices.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, ensuring the cutlets fry evenly.

Step 5: Cook the Cutlets

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Chicken: Use eggplant slices or tofu as a substitute for chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Eggs: Substitute eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to bind the breadcrumbs.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
• Parmigiano Reggiano: Replace with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

When making Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy cutlets. Always fry in batches.
• Uneven Cooking: If the chicken is not pounded evenly, some parts may cook faster than others. Ensure uniform thickness.
• Breadcrumbs Not Sticking: If the breadcrumbs aren’t adhering well, make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken in the egg mixture first.
• Burning the Cutlets: Keep an eye on the heat. If the oil is too hot, the breadcrumbs will burn before the chicken is cooked through.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Helpful Q&A

Can I freeze Italian Chicken Cutlets?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded but uncooked cutlets. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, simply fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Italian Chicken Cutlets?

These cutlets are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a fresh salad, pasta with marinara sauce, or even in a sandwich with some arugula and pesto for a delightful twist.

Can I bake the cutlets instead of frying them?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with olive oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, or cut into the thickest part of the cutlet to check for any pinkness.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have this delightful recipe for Italian Chicken Cutlets – Cotoletta di Pollo, it’s time to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, each bite of these cutlets is a celebration of flavor. Enjoy your culinary adventure!