Title: Crispy Lemon Chicken Cutlets Recipe (Quick, Zesty & Juicy)
These crispy lemon chicken cutlets are golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. A quick and easy dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
Crispy Lemon Chicken Cutlets (Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner)
This lemon chicken cutlet recipe is your new go-to for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly dinner. Thinly sliced chicken breasts are seasoned, breaded, and pan-fried until crispy—then finished with a zesty lemon twist that brightens every bite.
Serve these cutlets with a side of mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon slices and chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken:
Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. Pound gently between parchment paper for even thickness.
2. Season:
Sprinkle cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest.
3. Set up breading station:
- In one bowl, place flour.
- In a second bowl, whisk egg with lemon juice.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan (if using).
4. Bread the chicken:
Dredge each cutlet in flour, then dip in lemon-egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs.
5. Cook:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve:
Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Cutlet Recipe:
- Crispy outside, juicy inside
- Bright lemon flavor adds freshness
- Cooks in under 30 minutes
- Great for meal prep or sandwiches
- Kid-friendly and elegant enough for guests
Serving Ideas:
- With buttery mashed potatoes or rice
- Over spaghetti aglio e olio
- Inside a ciabatta roll for a lemon chicken sandwich
- Alongside arugula salad or sautéed green beans
Variations:
- Gluten-free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mix
- Cheesy version: Add mozzarella on top and broil for 2 minutes
- Lemon butter sauce: Drizzle with a quick lemon-garlic butter sauce after frying
FAQs:
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely—just make sure they are boneless and pounded to an even thickness.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
Final Thoughts:
These crispy lemon chicken cutlets are quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. With their bright citrus flavor and golden crunch, they’re sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
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