When it comes to quick yet flavorful dinners, Lemon Chicken Cutlets are a true classic. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with bright lemony flavor, this dish combines simple ingredients to create restaurant-quality results right at home.
Whether you’re preparing a weekday meal or entertaining guests, these cutlets are light, elegant, and easy to pair with your favorite sides — from roasted vegetables to buttery mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- Set up three shallow bowls — one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip into the eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Cutlets
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Cook chicken cutlets 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove cutlets and place on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Add Lemon Flavor
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the hot cutlets and sprinkle with lemon zest.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over buttered pasta or rice pilaf to absorb the lemony juices.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Top with a spoonful of capers or garlic butter sauce for added richness.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Cutlet) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 34 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 320 milligrams |
| Cholesterol | 125 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- High in lean protein, perfect for post-workout or healthy dinners.
- Lemon juice and zest add vitamin C and freshness without extra calories.
- Can be made gluten-free by using almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Using olive oil instead of butter can reduce saturated fat content by up to 30%.
Tips for Perfect Cutlets
- Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
- For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan for an instant lemon sauce.
Variations to Try
- Parmesan Lemon Cutlets: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- Spicy Lemon Cutlets: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the breading.
- Herb Infused: Mix dried basil, oregano, or thyme into the flour for an aromatic twist.
These Lemon Chicken Cutlets are a versatile and refreshing dish that fits any occasion. With their golden crust, tangy lemon notes, and tender texture, they deliver the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
Simple to prepare yet impressive on the plate, they’re sure to become a regular favorite at your dinner table.