Crispy Cheese-It Crusted Chicken Cutlets

• •4 piece Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• •2 cup Cheese-It crackers (crushed into fine crumbs)
• •0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• •1 piece Large egg
• •1 tbsp Milk or water
• •1 tsp Garlic powder
• •0.5 tsp Paprika
• •0.5 tsp Salt
• •0.3 tsp Black pepper
• •2 tbsp Vegetable oil or olive oil (for pan-frying)

Instructions

1. 1

   Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, pound the chicken until it is about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures even and quick cooking.

2. 2

   Prepare your breading station. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. In a second shallow dish, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of milk or water. In a third shallow dish, add the crushed Cheese-It crumbs and mix in the remaining 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.

3. 3

   Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Cheese-It crumbs, ensuring it's completely coated on all sides. Repeat for all chicken pieces.

4. 4

   Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place 2 chicken cutlets into the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C).

5. 5

   Remove the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken cutlets. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For extra fine crumbs, crush the Cheese-Its in a food processor. If doing by hand, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
• 💡Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking, as it can lower the oil temperature and prevent the chicken from getting crispy. Cook in batches if necessary.
• 💡Serve these crispy cutlets with a side of your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard, ranch, or even a simple squeeze of lemon.