Crispy oven-baked chicken cutlets are a weeknight staple when you want something crunchy and comforting without frying. They’re simple to prepare, bake up golden and crisp in the oven, and use everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand. This makes them a reliable option for busy nights when everyone’s hungry and you don’t want a lot of cleanup.

This recipe focuses on thin chicken cutlets coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, baked until crisp on the outside and juicy inside. It’s familiar, flexible, and easy to serve with a wide range of sides, making it a dinner you’ll come back to often.

What This Recipe Tastes Like

These chicken cutlets are crispy and lightly crunchy on the outside, with tender, juicy chicken inside. The breadcrumb coating is well-seasoned but not overpowering, giving you classic comfort-food flavor without heaviness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy texture without frying
Easy oven-baked method
Family-friendly and familiar
Ready in about 30 minutes
Works with many side dishes

Best Occasions to Serve This

Busy weeknight dinners
Family meals
Kid-friendly dinners
When you want comfort food without frying

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by preheating your oven so it’s fully hot before the chicken goes in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Pat the chicken cutlets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Dip each cutlet into beaten eggs, then coat evenly with seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.

Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle the tops with oil to help them crisp in the oven.

Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy. Flip the cutlets halfway through baking for even browning. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving so the coating stays crisp.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use thin cutlets for faster, even cooking
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet
Flip halfway for maximum crispiness
Add oil spray for a golden finish

Variations & Substitutions

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
Add parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture
Season with Italian seasoning or paprika
Serve as cutlets, sandwiches, or over salads

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. These cutlets also freeze well once cooked and cooled.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?

Yes, slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets.

How do I keep baked chicken crispy?

Use a hot oven, space the cutlets apart, and flip halfway through baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken ahead, but bake just before serving.

Can I air fry these instead?

Yes, they cook well in the air fryer with similar crispiness.

What sides go best with chicken cutlets?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables all work well.