Weight Watchers Breaded Chicken Cutlets
An Irresistible Italian Delight: Weight Watchers Breaded Chicken Cutlets
What’s on the menu for dinner tonight in your kitchen? If you’re searching for an effortlessly delicious meal, you’ll adore this recipe for breaded chicken cutlets, Italian style. It’s a cherished dish from my childhood! Growing up in Queens, it seemed like every kid had this recipe as a staple in their home.
We enjoyed these breaded Italian-style chicken cutlets at least once or twice a week, and they were often transformed into chicken Parmesan later in the week. Whenever I prepare this dish for dinner, I make sure to cook a little extra for those Parmesan cravings that come a few days later. Both meals are perfect for a busy weeknight and are beloved by my family.
This recipe was originally shared on the blog some time ago, and it’s become a family favorite. With a simple side dish and salad, you can present an easy, wholesome meal. My son, Michael, especially loves this chicken and often requests it when he visits from college.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The secret to perfect chicken cutlets begins with boneless chicken breasts, which you slice through the middle to butterfly and make them thin. On a good day, you might get three slices from one chicken breast. Pounding them thinner with a meat tenderizer ensures even cooking and a delightful texture.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Resealable plastic bag
- Plate
- Nonstick baking sheet
- Meat tenderizer
- Wax paper
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1 pound
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a resealable plastic bag, combine the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, paprika, parsley, garlic powder, and pepper. Shake well to mix.
- Transfer the cheese mixture to a plate. Dip each chicken breast into the mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly.
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a nonstick baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 20-25 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure even slices by butterflying the chicken breasts and pounding them gently. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, especially the parmesan cheese.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a variation, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Weight Watchers Points Plus: 4 points per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs, but keep in mind they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.
Can I freeze the breaded chicken cutlets?
Absolutely! After baking, let the cutlets cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Ready to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen? This Weight Watchers Breaded Chicken Cutlets recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy a family favorite. Give it a try and share your experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out and any personal twists you added!
