If you’re looking for a lighter, cleaner way to get that classic chicken Parmesan crunch without frying, these Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Cutlets are exactly what you need. Thin chicken cutlets are coated in a golden, cheesy Parmesan–panko crust, then baked until the outside is shatteringly crisp while the inside stays tender and juicy. Everything cooks on one baking sheet in about 25–30 minutes, so cleanup is a breeze and the leftovers taste great reheated.
These cutlets are incredibly versatile: serve them over pasta with marinara, tuck them into a sandwich with melted cheese and greens, or pair them with roasted vegetables and a simple salad. The Parmesan‑heavy coating gives them a salty, nutty flavor that makes them feel indulgent even though they’re baked, not fried.
Complete Ingredient List (Serves 4)
This version is easy to scale up if you want to make more.
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 they’re thick, gently pound them to about ¼‑inch thickness so they cook evenly and stay tender.
Set Up the Breading Station
Place the flour in a shallow bowl or plate. In a second bowl, whisk the beaten eggs with the milk or water. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Bread the Cutlets
Dredge each cutlet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating clings 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 cutlets in a single layer, then lightly drizzle or spray them with olive oil so the crust crisps up.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cutlets are deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The coating should be crisp and the chicken juicy.
Serve
Serve the cutlets warm, garnished with chopped parsley or basil. They’re excellent with marinara and pasta, or topped with melted mozzarella for a full chicken Parmesan feel.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken Cutlets
Use panko for maximum crunch; it stays crisp even after baking. For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix. 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 crunchy.
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 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 “so addictive” 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.