Italian chicken cutlets are a beloved classic, delivering rich, homestyle Italian flavors in a remarkably simple and satisfying package. Imagine tender, juicy chicken topped with melted mozzarella, a generous spoonful of rich marinara, and fragrant fresh basil—all without the usual fuss. This recipe is your secret weapon for those busy weeknights when you crave a truly comforting meal that comes together quickly. It’s a dish you’ll undoubtedly want to keep in your regular rotation.
This effortless Italian chicken cutlets recipe truly earns its spot as a go-to meal in any household. It’s a standout in our collection of reliable 30-minute recipes, designed to take the stress out of meal planning and make budget-friendly cooking a breeze. The chicken cutlets are baked to perfection, boasting a juicy interior and a beautiful golden-brown exterior. The vibrant layers of cheese, savory sauce, and aromatic herbs recreate the complex taste of a slow-cooked Italian classic, but in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re serving it as a delightful main course for guests or keeping it simple for a family weeknight dinner, this dish is a delicious and dependable choice every time.
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Why You’ll Adore These Baked Chicken Cutlets
There are countless reasons why these baked Italian chicken cutlets have become a family favorite. Beyond their undeniable deliciousness, they offer practical benefits that make them ideal for modern home cooks:
- A Healthier Approach to a Classic: Unlike many traditional chicken cutlet recipes that involve deep-frying, ours are oven-baked without breading (unless you choose one of our variations). This significantly reduces the need for frying oil, making the meal lighter, lower in saturated fats, and considerably lower in carbohydrates. You get all the flavor without the guilt!
- Effortlessly Quick and Perfect for Batch Cooking: Our recipe yields 6 perfectly cooked cutlets in just around 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a family of four. It’s even quicker than many other popular quick meals, like our Instant Pot Pesto Chicken. The simplicity of the method means you can easily scale up the recipe to feed a larger crowd or prepare extra portions for convenient leftovers throughout the week. Imagine having a delicious, pre-made Italian component ready for lunch or another quick dinner!
- Versatile Italian Flavors That Pair with Everything: The harmonious blend of classic Italian herbs, savory marinara, and creamy mozzarella creates a flavor profile that complements an incredible array of side dishes. Much like our chicken tenders marinade, these cutlets offer almost limitless options for pairing, from fresh salads to hearty pasta or roasted vegetables.
If your culinary goals include more healthy poultry recipes, we highly recommend exploring our Caprese Chicken recipe or our wholesome healthy chicken tenderloins recipe. Both feature fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, often becoming instant hits with children! Our Chicken Piccata Cheesecake Factory Copycat recipe is another guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any family dinner, offering a light, lemony, and utterly delicious experience.
Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting delicious Italian chicken cutlets starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast meat is the ideal choice for creating tender, baked cutlets. While you can purchase pre-sliced cutlets at the grocery store, they often come with a higher price tag. To save money and ensure precise thickness, we highly recommend making your own cutlets from whole chicken breasts. It’s surprisingly simple, and we provide detailed instructions below! Look for plump, fresh chicken breasts for the best results.
- Italian Seasoning: This versatile blend is the heart of our Italian flavor. It typically combines dried basil, marjoram, rosemary, oregano, and thyme. If you don’t have a pre-made blend, you can easily create your own. While having all five herbs is ideal for a rich flavor profile, you can still achieve excellent results by using at least oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to your blend for extra depth.
- Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is crucial. For the most authentic and fresh taste, a homemade marinara sauce is always superior to store-bought options. If time is a constraint, opt for a high-quality, low-sugar store-bought brand. You can always enhance store-bought sauce with a dash of fresh garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a splash of red wine for added complexity.
- Mozzarella Cheese: We use slices of fresh mozzarella for that perfect melty, gooey topping. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, pre-shredded mozzarella will work. For a slightly sharper flavor, you can even mix in a bit of grated Parmesan cheese with the mozzarella. Provolone is another excellent substitute for a different but equally delicious cheesy layer.
- Basil: Fresh basil is non-negotiable for garnish! Its bright, aromatic notes provide a beautiful contrast to the rich cheese and sauce. Avoid using dried basil for the topping, as it lacks the vibrant flavor and appealing texture of fresh leaves. If fresh basil is hard to find, fresh parsley can offer a similar fresh green element, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
- Melted Butter: Used for brushing the chicken, it adds moisture and helps the seasonings adhere, contributing to a golden exterior and rich flavor. Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative, or a mix of both.
- Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, remembering that marinara sauce and cheese can also contribute sodium.
Understanding the Chicken Cutlet
Simply put, a chicken cutlet is a whole chicken breast that has been expertly sliced lengthwise into two, thinner pieces. This preparation creates a uniform thickness that cooks more quickly and evenly than a whole breast. Because they are thinner, cutlets are also much more efficient at absorbing marinades, such as our flavorful balsamic chicken marinade, and dry rubs, like our homemade seasoning for chicken tacos. This rapid absorption means deeper, more consistent flavor with less marinating time.
Mastering the Art of Slicing Chicken Breasts into Cutlets
Creating your own chicken cutlets is a valuable kitchen skill. Here’s a step-by-step guide for perfectly uniform pieces:
- Begin by patting the chicken breast thoroughly dry with paper towels. This improves grip and prevents slipping. Place it on a clean, dry cutting board.
🎯 Pro Tip
To ensure your cutting board remains stable and prevents any accidents, place a damp kitchen towel or a piece of non-slip mat underneath it. This simple trick provides excellent traction.
- With one hand placed palm-down firmly on top of the chicken breast to secure it, carefully and smoothly slide a very sharp knife horizontally through the center of the breast, working from one side to the other. Maintain an even pressure to create two equally thin pieces.
For more detailed visual guidance and additional techniques on how to transform whole chicken breasts into various cuts, including cubes, cutlets, and tenders, refer to our comprehensive post on how to cut a chicken breast.
Creative Recipe Variations for Every Palate
While the classic Italian baked chicken cutlets are undeniably delicious, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for numerous culinary explorations:
- Classic Chicken Parm Style: Elevate these cutlets into a truly indulgent and cozy twist on traditional chicken Parmesan. First, prepare your breading mixture by combining plain breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, a pinch of black pepper, and optional dried parsley. Before baking, dip each cutlet thoroughly in an egg mixture (beaten eggs with a splash of milk or water), then coat generously with your breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the breading to ensure it adheres well. Place the breaded chicken on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake until they are delightfully crispy, golden brown, and cooked through before adding the sauce and cheese for the final melty finish.
- Rich and Flavorful Chicken Thighs: For those who prefer a richer, darker meat, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of the cutlets. Chicken thighs naturally retain more moisture and offer a deeper, more robust flavor. They stay incredibly juicy even when baked. Pair them beautifully with fresh mozzarella and a vibrant splash of fresh lemon juice drizzled just before serving to brighten the dish. Cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Crispy Breaded and Fried Option: If you adore a truly crispy finish that only frying can provide, this variation is for you. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with whisked eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian bread crumbs and fresh parsley. Coat each cutlet first in flour (shaking off excess), then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Heat about 1/2 inch of canola oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Shallow-fry the cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels before topping with marinara and mozzarella for a quick bake to melt the cheese.
- Light and Lemony Herb Cutlets: For a brighter, lighter meal, skip the marinara sauce and cheese altogether. Instead, generously season your cutlets with onion powder, garlic powder, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and an assortment of your favorite fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary before baking. Serve these zesty cutlets with a fresh side salad, a light quinoa pilaf, or steamed green beans for a refreshingly healthy take on chicken cutlets.
Tools for Success: Equipment Used in This Recipe
Having the right kitchen tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of the essential equipment for these Italian chicken cutlets:
- Casserole dish or large shallow baking dish: A 10-inch cast iron skillet works beautifully, as does any similar-sized oven-safe dish. The key is to have enough surface area to arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer for even cooking.
- Meat tenderizer or rolling pin: Crucial for pounding chicken breasts into uniform cutlets.
- Basting brush: Useful for evenly applying melted butter and seasonings to the chicken.
- Instant-read meat thermometer: Your most important tool for ensuring the chicken is cooked perfectly to 165ºF without overcooking and drying out.
- Small bowls: Handy for holding melted butter, Italian seasoning, and other ingredients for easy access during prep.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing chicken breasts into cutlets safely and efficiently.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing the chicken.
- Plastic Wrap: Used when pounding the chicken to keep things tidy and prevent cross-contamination.
🎯 Pro Tip
When flattening chicken breasts, the flat side of a meat mallet is the absolute best kitchen tool for achieving an even thickness quickly and efficiently. If you don’t have one, a sturdy rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy skillet can work wonders.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Italian Chicken Cutlets Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly baked Italian chicken cutlets that are tender, cheesy, and bursting with flavor:
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). This higher temperature ensures the chicken cooks quickly and develops a nice exterior. Lightly grease your chosen baking dish (a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a shallow casserole dish works perfectly) with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. Set it aside for later use.
- Slice and Pound the Chicken to Perfection: If you’re starting with whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of pre-cut cutlets, now is the time to slice them. Carefully slice each breast in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Once sliced, place each chicken piece between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet (the flat side is best!) or a rolling pin, pound the chicken gently but firmly to an even thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch. This critical step ensures they cook quickly and uniformly, preventing common issues like burned edges or undercooked centers. Achieving an even thickness guarantees a tender result throughout.
- Season Generously and Arrange: Carefully place the pounded chicken cutlets in a single layer within your prepared baking dish. Avoid overcrowding the dish, as this can lead to steaming rather than baking. Using a basting brush, lightly coat both sides of each cutlet with melted butter. This not only adds flavor and helps with browning but also helps the seasonings adhere. Now, generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning and sea salt. This aromatic blend is what infuses these baked chicken cutlets with their quintessential herby, savory Italian flavor.
- Initial Bake and Topping Application: Place the seasoned chicken in your preheated 425°F oven and bake for an initial 15 minutes. It’s crucial not to cook them fully at this stage; they should be slightly underdone, as they will continue to cook when you add the toppings. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Promptly top each cutlet with a slice of creamy mozzarella cheese, followed by a spoonful (1-2 tablespoons) of your rich marinara sauce. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes. The goal here is for the cheese to melt beautifully and become bubbly, and for the chicken to reach a safe internal temperature of 165ºF (74°C). Baking at 425°F for the initial 15 minutes and then adding toppings ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out during the second, shorter bake.
The first round of baking takes 15 minutes. The subsequent time in the oven, with the added cheese and sauce, can range anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes. This variability means your total cooking time could be as little as 20 minutes or up to 25 minutes – this is precisely where an instant-read digital thermometer becomes an invaluable kitchen tool, ensuring perfect doneness every time.
- Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven. For a final flourish, artfully scatter fresh basil over the top. We recommend cutting the basil into thin, delicate strips (a technique known as “chiffonade” – see below for instructions). Serve these warm, irresistible Italian chicken cutlets with your favorite complementary side dishes for a truly memorable meal.
Presentation Matters: Serving and Plating Suggestions
Plating is just as important as flavor in creating a memorable dining experience. Adding delicate ribbons of fresh basil, achieved through a classic culinary technique called a “chiffonade cut,” to your finished baked chicken cutlets is an easy yet incredibly effective way to elevate the visual appeal of the meal and make it look truly impressive! The vibrant green provides a striking contrast to the red sauce and white cheese.
To cut basil chiffonade style:
- Stack: Gather and stack up to 10 basil leaves neatly on top of one another. Ensure they are aligned for even cuts.
- Roll: Tightly roll the stacked leaves together into the shape of a compact cylinder or a small cigar.
- Cut: Using a very sharp knife, carefully slice the rolled basil into very thin strips. Aim for uniform ribbons.
- Loosen: Gently separate the strands of basil with your fingers. You should now have beautiful, fragrant ribbons ready to use as a stylish garnish!
These versatile Italian chicken cutlets can be served in countless ways. For a festive holiday meal, consider pairing them with a comforting side like sweet potato casserole with canned yams. For a lighter, more refreshing option, serve them alongside a crisp lemony arugula salad or a medley of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, colorful bell peppers, and sweet cherry tomatoes – this creates a wonderfully balanced and vibrant meal. To make the dish heartier, a side of garlic-butter pasta, creamy risotto, or even fluffy couscous would be excellent choices. Don’t forget that any delicious leftovers make for a fantastic filling for sandwiches or wraps the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Chicken Cutlets
The optimal oven temperature for baking chicken largely depends on the thickness of the meat and whether it’s breaded. Higher heat settings, like 400°F or 425°F, tend to speed up the cooking process and can help achieve a lovely crispy exterior, but they also carry a higher risk of drying out the chicken if not monitored carefully. For evenly sized pieces like chicken cutlets, there’s less concern about uneven cooking, making a hotter oven an excellent choice when you’re aiming for quick doneness and a slight crisp. We specifically recommend baking our chicken cutlets at 425°F, which ensures they become perfectly tender and ready to serve in just about 30 minutes, achieving that desirable golden finish while remaining juicy inside.
For any poultry recipe, the ultimate goal is always to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature eliminates any risk of foodborne illness from undercooked poultry. For thin chicken breasts or cutlets, baked at 425°F, this typically takes between 20 to 25 minutes total, including the two baking stages outlined in our recipe. Always use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding bone) to confirm doneness. This prevents both undercooking and overcooking, ensuring perfectly juicy chicken every time.
Absolutely! Italian chicken cutlets are excellent for meal prep. They are safe to reheat for up to 4 days after initial cooking, provided they are stored properly. Always place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and safety.
Reheating leftover baked chicken cutlets in the oven is highly recommended for the best results, especially if you want to revive that melty cheese and warm sauce. For an extra boost of flavor and moisture, we suggest adding a bit more marinara sauce and a fresh slice of mozzarella cheese on top before reheating. Reheat the baked cutlets at a lower temperature, around 350°F (175°C), until the cheese is melted and bubbly again, and the chicken is thoroughly warmed through. This gentler heat prevents the chicken from drying out and helps the cheese get wonderfully gooey once more.
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We hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to prepare these delightful Italian chicken cutlets. If you tried this recipe or any other recipe from our website, please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating and sharing your experience in the 📝 comments section below. Your feedback means a lot to us! You can also tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to show off your culinary creations. Thank you for visiting and happy cooking!
Classic Italian Chicken Cutlets
By Renae Gerhardstein
Crispy, golden Italian chicken cutlets made with simple ingredients and classic seasoning—perfect for pasta, salads, or sandwiches. This easy, 30-minute recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.
Pin Recipe
Course: Entree
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 6 cutlets
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 257 kcal
Equipment
- 10″ cast iron skillet or casserole dish (or large shallow baking dish)
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Basting brush
- Instant-read meat thermometer
- Small bowls
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
- 6 chicken cutlets (or 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 6 slices mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup marinara sauce
- 8 basil leaves, cut chiffonade-style, julienned, or finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Slice Chicken Breasts (If Needed): If using whole chicken breasts, slice each breast horizontally into two thinner cutlets. Place one chicken breast on a cutting board, hold it flat with one hand, and carefully slice it lengthwise with a sharp knife to create two even cutlets. Repeat with remaining breasts.
- Pound Cutlets: Place the cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use the flat side of a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of ½ to ¾ inch.
- Season & Initial Bake: Arrange the cutlets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Brush both sides of each cutlet with melted butter, then season generously with Italian seasoning and sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Add Toppings & Final Bake: Remove the dish from the oven. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese over each cutlet, then spoon 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over the cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165ºF (74°C).
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil chiffonade, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Recommended Sides: Consider serving these Italian chicken cutlets with Instant Pot steamed broccoli, pesto pasta with peas, or a refreshing kale salad with tahini dressing.
- Cutting Board Stability: To prevent your cutting board from slipping while slicing chicken, place a damp kitchen towel underneath it.
- Pounding Tool: The best tool for pounding chicken to an even thickness is the flat side of a meat mallet.
- Recipe Variations:
- Classic Chicken Parm Style: Bread cutlets with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and pepper after dipping in egg. Bake until crispy before adding sauce and cheese.
- Using Chicken Thighs: Substitute boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They remain incredibly juicy; pair with fresh mozzarella and a squeeze of lemon.
- Breaded and Fried Option: For a crispy finish, coat cutlets in flour, egg, and Italian bread crumbs, then shallow-fry in oil until golden.
- Light and Lemony: Skip sauce and cheese. Season with onion powder, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Serve with a side salad.
- Storing Instructions: Store cooked Italian chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with a little extra sauce and cheese on top until warmed through and bubbly.
Nutrition Facts
(Approximate values per serving)
- Serving: 1 cutlet
- Calories: 257 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 872mg
- Potassium: 545mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 517IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 169mg
- Iron: 1mg