Easy Lemony Chicken Cutlets – Weeknight Favorite Print
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Crispy lemony chicken cutlets topped with arugula salad on a white plate, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Easy Lemony Chicken Cutlets – Weeknight Favorite


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5 from 2 reviews

Description

Crisp, zesty, and ready in 30 minutes — these easy lemony chicken cutlets use tenders for faster prep and flawless texture.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken breast tenders

Juice of 2 1/2 lemons, divided

1 tbsp minced garlic

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tbsp kosher salt

1/2 tbsp black pepper

3 large eggs

2 tbsp water

2 cups breadcrumbs - Make my homemade version to elevate these cutlets

2 tbsp Italian seasoning

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Zest of 1 lemon

Avocado oil (about 1/2 cup)

1 tbsp olive oil (optional)


Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the juice of ½ lemon and garlic. Add chicken tenders, toss to coat, and marinate 20–30 minutes.

  2. Set up three shallow dishes: (1) flour, salt, and pepper; (2) eggs mixed with water; (3) breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley, and lemon zest.

  3. Lightly coat each tender in seasoned flour, shaking off excess.

  4. Dip floured chicken in the egg wash, coating completely and allowing excess to drip off.

  5. Press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, compact crust.

  6. (Optional) Chill breaded cutlets 1–2 hours to help the coating set.

  7. Heat avocado oil (and olive oil, if using) in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry cutlets 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

  8. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate, then squeeze the juice of 2 lemons over the hot cutlets. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Using chicken tenders makes prep faster and creates evenly cooked, juicy cutlets.
  • Pressing the crumbs in tightly is the secret to that signature crisp crust.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 Minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: Italian, Italian-Inspired
Crisp, zesty, and ready in 30 minutes — these easy lemony chicken cutlets use tenders for faster prep and flawless texture.