Old Fashioned Chicken Cutlets: Classic Recipe, Nutritional Tips, and Healthier Alternatives

Old fashioned chicken cutlets have roots in European cuisine. Italian, German, and Austrian traditions introduced breaded and fried meats, giving rise to chicken cutlets. These cutlets became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, where they were quickly embraced by home cooks for their simplicity and taste.

Traditional Ingredients

Creating classic chicken cutlets involves a few key ingredients:

• Chicken Breast: Typically boneless and skinless for ease of preparation.
• Breadcrumbs: Standard or panko, providing a crunchy texture.
• Eggs: Used for coating and helping the breadcrumbs adhere.
• Flour: Acts as the initial coating for the chicken.
• Seasonings: Commonly salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor.
• Oil: Neutral oils like vegetable or canola are used for frying.

These ingredients ensure a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, making old fashioned chicken cutlets a perennial favorite.

How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken Cutlets

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Trim any excess fat or tendons. To ensure even cooking, slice each breast horizontally to form thin cutlets of about 1/2 inch thickness. Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, usually around 1/4 inch. This process tenderizes the meat and reduces cooking time.

Breading and Seasoning

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat eggs and add a pinch of salt. In the third dish, mix breadcrumbs with seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Coat each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured cutlet in the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, press the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

Cooking Techniques

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable or canola oil to cover the bottom. When the oil is hot but not smoking, place the breaded cutlets in the skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded cutlets in a preheated oven at 400°F on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cutlets

Accompaniments and Sides

Enhance your chicken cutlets with a variety of accompaniments and sides. Mashed potatoes, green beans, and coleslaw provide a balanced and traditional meal. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and peas add both color and nutrition. Potato wedges or French fries create a comforting, familiar touch.

For more adventurous palates, try pairing your cutlets with quinoa or couscous seasoned with herbs. These grains absorb flavors well and complement the crispiness of the chicken. Roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, provide a sweet and savory contrast to the savory cutlets.

Sauce Pairings

Select a sauce to elevate your chicken cutlets’ flavor profile. Classic options include marinara sauce, which adds a rich, tomato-based flavor. A creamy mushroom sauce provides a complementary earthy tone. If you prefer something tangier, tartar sauce or tzatziki offer a refreshing contrast.

For a zesty touch, try lemon butter sauce. This simple combination of lemon juice, butter, and garlic heightens the cutlets’ flavor. Barbecue sauce introduces a smoky, slightly sweet option. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sriracha mayo or spicy honey mustard can deliver an extra kick.

Mixing different sauces and accompaniments helps create a versatile and inviting meal, ensuring everyone finds something they love.

Health Benefits and Dietary Considerations

Nutritional Information

Old-fashioned chicken cutlets offer a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious choice. A 3.5-ounce serving of chicken breast provides about 165 calories, 31 grams of protein, and 3.6 grams of fat. Protein supports muscle development and repair while low-fat content contributes to a healthy diet. Chicken also offers essential vitamins like B6 and B12. Vitamin B6 aids in metabolism, and B12 supports red blood cell formation.

When breading and frying, the nutritional content changes. Frying increases the calorie and fat content. Using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or panko adds fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. It’s important to monitor portion sizes and the types of ingredients used to maintain the dish’s nutritional balance.

Making Healthier Alternatives

To make old-fashioned chicken cutlets healthier, consider these alternatives. Bake instead of fry to reduce fat content. Baking requires less oil, which keeps the calorie count lower. Using olive oil or avocado oil is better than standard vegetable oils due to their healthier fat profiles.

Incorporate whole-grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs for added dietary fiber and nutrients. Whole grains support heart health and improve digestion. Gluten-free options cater to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Use an egg white or a low-fat yogurt coating instead of whole eggs to lower cholesterol intake. Egg whites contain less fat and fewer calories.

Including herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and rosemary enhances flavor without adding calories. Spices offer antioxidants and other health benefits.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned chicken cutlets are more than just a nostalgic dish; they’re a versatile and nutritious option for any meal. By incorporating healthier alternatives like baking and using whole-grain breadcrumbs, you can enjoy this classic favorite without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Remember to monitor portion sizes and ingredient choices to keep your meals balanced and satisfying. With these tips, you can continue to savor the timeless appeal of chicken cutlets while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.