chicken cotoletta recipe
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The Best chicken cotoletta recipe
I’ve been making chicken cotoletta for years, and it’s one of those recipes that just never gets old. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit with my family—especially the kids, who ask for it at least once a week. There’s something about that crispy, golden crust and the tender, juicy chicken underneath that makes it feel like a treat, even though it’s actually a pretty wholesome meal. I love that it comes together quickly, which is perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also special enough for a weekend dinner when we want something a little more comforting.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with a simple side salad for a light, balanced meal, or pair it with roasted potatoes or pasta for something heartier. The breading gives it that crunchy texture without being greasy, and since it’s baked instead of fried, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, chicken is a great source of lean protein, so I feel good about serving it to my family. It’s one of those dishes that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and nutritious.
Classic Italian Chicken Cotoletta
4.9 from 1568 votes
A crispy, golden breaded chicken cutlet that’s a staple of Italian cuisine. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal
🥘Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For the Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
For Frying
- ½ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
- 2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor)
For Serving (Optional)
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Marinara sauce or aioli for dipping
👨🍳Directions
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1 Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with a meat mallet (or rolling pin) to an even ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
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2 Set up the breading station: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and salt.
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3 Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
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4 Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (and butter, if using) over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
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5 Fry the chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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6 Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, and serve with marinara sauce or aioli if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- 3 shallow bowls or plates
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Meat mallet (optional, for pounding chicken)
- Mixing bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 36g
📝Notes
Tips: For extra crispiness, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 15–20 minutes instead of frying. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Serve with a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.
Watch Video Of How Classic Italian Chicken Cotoletta Works
This chicken cotoletta recipe is one of those foolproof dishes that always delivers—crispy, flavorful, and simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company. It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults love, and the leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a gathering, it’s a reliable go-to that never disappoints.
