Make-Ahead Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Name: Make-Ahead Crispy Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 50 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 big egg yolks; ½ cup of mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons of kosher salt; 4 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken cutlets, flattened to ¼ thickness (if making smaller pieces, quarter the cutlet before flattening); ¾ cup of extra-virgin olive oil; 6 cups of panko (Japanese breadcrumbs); 2 tablespoons of optional ingredients: mustard powder, garlic powder, finely grated Parmesan, or dried herbs

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By AprilPublished Aug 8, 2023

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every day? Do you wish there was a way to have a delicious and crispy chicken dinner without all the fuss?

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Prep: 50 min
Total: 50 min
Servings: 10

Method

In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, mayonnaise, and salt until smooth.
Add chicken to the bowl and use tongs to turn it several times, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
Add panko to the skillet and stir constantly with a wooden spoon. Make sure to scrape around the edges to incorporate darker breadcrumbs. Continue cooking until the panko turns golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes.
Allow the toasted panko to cool slightly, then stir in mustard powder if desired.
Using tongs, place one chicken cutlet in the skillet. With one hand, press the surrounding toasted panko onto the cutlet, ensuring it adheres firmly. Flip the cutlet and repeat the process on the other side with more breadcrumbs. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs.
Transfer the breaded cutlet to a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. If you plan to freeze the cutlets, skip the wire rack and place them directly on a baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining cutlets, spacing them evenly apart on the baking sheet. Discard any leftover panko.
If you want to freeze the cutlets, place the baking sheets in the freezer until the chicken becomes firm, which should take about 1 hour. Then, transfer the cutlets to resealable freezer bags or

About this recipe

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every day? Do you wish there was a way to have a delicious and crispy chicken dinner without all the fuss? Well, look no further! In this article, we will show you how to make make-ahead crispy chicken cutlets that you can enjoy any day of the week.

The Secret to Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Have you ever wondered why some chicken cutlets turn out crispy and golden while others end up soggy and lackluster? The secret lies in the breading. By using a combination of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, you can achieve that perfect crunch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the great things about these crispy chicken cutlets is that you can make them ahead of time and store them in the freezer. This means that on busy weeknights, all you have to do is pop them in the oven and dinner is served. No more last-minute scrambling to put together a meal!

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the chicken cutlets, simply prepare them as directed and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to cook them, just take them out of the freezer and follow the baking instructions. It's that easy!

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Now that you know the secret to crispy chicken cutlets and the convenience of making them ahead of time, let's talk about a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Pounding the Chicken

One of the key steps in making crispy chicken cutlets is pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This not only helps the chicken cook more evenly, but it also tenderizes the meat. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it's about 1/4 inch thick.

Double Breading

Another tip for achieving that extra crispy coating is to double-bread the chicken. After dipping the chicken in the egg wash, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, then dip it back in the egg wash and coat it with breadcrumbs again. This double layer of breading will give you that satisfying crunch with every bite.

In Conclusion

Make-ahead crispy chicken cutlets are a game-changer when it comes to easy and delicious weeknight dinners. With their crispy coating and juicy interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. So why not give them a try? Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy the convenience of having a homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it. Happy cooking!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. They have a slightly higher fat content, which means they will be even juicier and more flavorful.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?: Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have dietary restrictions. Just make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying them?: Yes, you can bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying them for a healthier option. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use other seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture?: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your chicken cutlets. Some popular options include paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs?: Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter and crispier coating. Just keep in mind that panko breadcrumbs are larger and may require a bit more pressing to adhere to the chicken.
Can I use this recipe for chicken tenders?: Absolutely! This recipe works great for making crispy chicken tenders as well. Simply cut the chicken into smaller pieces and follow the same breading and cooking instructions.
Can I use a different type of meat, like pork or veal?: Yes, you can use this breading technique for other types of meat as well. Pork and veal cutlets work especially well with this recipe.
Can I reheat the leftover chicken cutlets?: Yes, you can reheat the leftover chicken cutlets in the oven or toaster oven. Simply place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I serve the chicken cutlets with a dipping sauce?: Absolutely! These crispy chicken cutlets are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a homemade aioli.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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