Chopped chicken cutlets are a tasty and versatile meal option perfect for busy weeknights. They feature a crispy exterior with a juicy interior, making them a hit at the dinner table. Simply chop boneless chicken breasts, season them, and coat them in breadcrumbs before frying for that satisfying crunch. You can enjoy them on their own or incorporate them into sandwiches, salads, and more. There's so much more to explore about their delicious possibilities!
History
Chopped chicken cutlets trace their roots to Italian cuisine, where chefs pound thinly sliced chicken to enhance tenderness and promote quick cooking.
The term "cutlet" comes from the French word "côtelette," referring to a small cut of meat. In the 19th century, cutlets gained popularity across Europe, becoming staples in cuisines like Italian, French, and German.
This technique allowed cooks to make economical use of tougher meat cuts, tenderized through pounding, which not only saved money but also made meals quicker to prepare.
Today, you'll find chicken cutlets in various dishes, from classic chicken Parmesan to modern sautéed or grilled varieties, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal in kitchens worldwide.
Recipe
Chopped chicken cutlets are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This recipe will guide you through the simple process of preparing these flavorful cutlets, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they can be served as a main dish or used as a filling for sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes, making them a staple in any home kitchen.
Chopped chicken cutlets are a versatile delight, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
To begin, you'll want to ensure that your chicken is properly prepared. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into thin pieces. Pounding them to an even thickness will help them cook evenly and quickly. The classic breading technique adds a delightful crunch and can be tailored with your favorite seasonings for added flavor. Pair them with a sauce of your choice, and you have a meal that's sure to please everyone at the table. Additionally, consider serving your cutlets with a refreshing Chimichurri Panzanella Salad to complement their flavors.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt
- Pepper
- Flour
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil (for frying)
To cook the chopped chicken cutlets, first, slice the chicken breasts into thin pieces and pound them to an even thickness. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station by placing flour in one shallow dish, whisking eggs in another dish, and placing breadcrumbs in a third dish. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and fry the cutlets for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
When cooking chopped chicken cutlets, it's essential to maintain the right temperature in the skillet to achieve that perfect crispy coating. If the oil is too hot, the breadcrumbs may burn before the chicken is fully cooked; if it's too cool, the cutlets will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
Additionally, consider letting the cutlets rest for a minute after frying to allow the juices to redistribute, which will keep them moist. Leftover cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated or used in other dishes, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Cooking Steps
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process.
Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix it with your favorite spices for added flavor.
Once that's done, combine the chicken with breadcrumbs and shape the mixture into fritters for a delicious meal.
Step 1. Gather Your Ingredients First
Gathering your ingredients is essential for making delicious chicken cutlets. Start by getting boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, which you can slice or pound to create evenly thin cutlets. This ensures consistent cooking and tenderness.
Next, prepare your seasoning by mixing salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like to enhance the flavor. Set up a breading station with shallow dishes containing seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy coating.
Don't forget to have extra virgin olive oil ready for sautéing or frying, as it adds a wonderful flavor. Lastly, keep a meat thermometer handy to check that your chicken cutlets reach at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Happy cooking!
Step 2. Chop Chicken Into Bite-Sized Pieces
Start by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and make sure they're fully thawed for easier cutting.
Grab a sharp chef's knife and slice the chicken against the grain. This technique ensures tenderness in each bite.
As you chop chicken, aim for uniform pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This size helps with even cooking and consistent texture throughout your dish.
If you find the chicken slippery, pop it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up.
Remember, kitchen safety is key! Always sanitize your cutting board and knife after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
Now you're all set to move on to the next steps!
Step 3. Add Spices to Chicken Mixture
With your chicken chopped into bite-sized pieces, it's time to infuse it with flavor. Start by seasoning the mixture generously with salt and pepper.
Next, add a sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning to elevate the taste. If you're in the mood for something spicy, consider mixing in Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill can also add an aromatic touch—feel free to toss those in!
To really let the flavors meld, cover the seasoned chicken and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential, as it intensifies the flavors, ensuring your cutlets are packed with deliciousness when cooked.
Step 4. Mix Chicken With Breadcrumbs
Coat the seasoned chicken pieces with breadcrumbs to create a deliciously crispy exterior.
Start by preparing a breading station with three shallow dishes: one filled with seasoned flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with grated cheese or herbs.
Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, immerse it in the egg mixture for an even coating, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture.
Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well, enhancing the overall texture.
Once breaded, let the chicken cutlets rest for about 30 minutes. This step helps improve adhesion and results in a crispier finish when you fry them later.
Step 5. Shape Mixture Into Fritters
To shape the mixture into fritters, grab a tablespoon or small cookie scoop for consistent portioning.
Scoop out the mixture and gently flatten each scoop into a patty shape, ensuring they're about ½ inch thick for even cooking.
Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the mixture from sticking while shaping the fritters.
If you want to boost flavor and texture, mix in finely chopped vegetables before you start shaping.
Once shaped, place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate them for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
This step is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked fritters that maintain their form and flavor throughout the frying process.
Enjoy your delicious creations!
Final Thoughts
Although many options exist for preparing chicken, chopped chicken cutlets stand out for their versatility and ease of cooking.
You can easily make chicken cutlets by slicing boneless, skinless breasts and pounding them to an even thickness. These cutlets cook quickly and can be enjoyed in various dishes like chicken piccata or chicken parmesan.
Just remember to sauté or fry them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. Plus, if you have leftovers, they can be repurposed in sandwiches, wraps, or salads, keeping their flavor intact.
Ensure your chicken cutlets reach 165°F for safety, and enjoy repurposing leftovers in delicious sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
With around 192 calories per serving, chopped chicken cutlets offer a lean protein option that's perfect for a balanced meal any day of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Chicken Breast and Cutlet?
You know the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"?
When it comes to chicken, don't overlook the difference between chicken breast and cutlet. Chicken breast is the whole muscle, while a cutlet is a thinly sliced or pounded piece, usually no more than 1/4-inch thick.
Cutlets cook faster, making them perfect for quick meals. They can be seasoned and breaded, adding versatility that plain chicken breasts lack.
What Is the Difference Between Chicken Chop and Chicken Cutlet?
When you compare chicken chop and chicken cutlet, the differences are clear.
Chicken chops are thicker, often bone-in pieces that come from various parts of the chicken, while cutlets are thin, boneless slices from the breast.
You'll find that chops take longer to cook through, whereas cutlets cook quickly.
If you're looking for a crispy texture, go for cutlets, but if you want something juicier and meatier, chicken chops are your best bet.
How to Make Cut Chicken Cutlets?
Imagine golden, crispy chicken cutlets sizzling in a hot skillet, their mouthwatering aroma filling the air.
To make them, start by slicing boneless chicken breasts into thin pieces. Pound them for even thickness, then season with salt and pepper.
Set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each cutlet, then sauté in oil until they're beautifully browned and reach 165°F.
You'll have delicious, juicy cutlets ready to enjoy!
Do You Put Egg or Flour in Chicken Cutlets First?
When breading chicken cutlets, you should start with flour first. Coat the cutlet in seasoned flour to create a base that helps the egg stick better.
After that, dip the cutlet into beaten eggs, allowing it to absorb richness and moisture. This order ensures a solid binding for the breadcrumbs you'll add next.
Following this sequence of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs guarantees a crispy and delicious crust on your chicken.
