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Golden crispy chicken cutlets served over romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, Parmesan shavings, and lemon wedges.

Crispy Chicken Caesar Cutlets Recipe – Crunchy Chicken with Caesar Dressing & Parmesan

These Crispy Chicken Caesar Cutlets are a bold twist on the classic Caesar salad. Juicy chicken breasts are breaded and pan-fried until golden and crunchy, then layered over crisp romaine and drizzled with creamy Caesar dressing. Topped with shaved Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon, this dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed plate that combines comfort food crunch with fresh, tangy Caesar flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Caesar sliders, Chicken Caesar salad, Chicken Caesar wraps, Crispy chicken sandwiches
Cuisine American / Italian-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet (or skillet)
  • Parchment paper or wire rack
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Air fryer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced or pounded thin)
  • ½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or Greek yogurt-based)
  • 1½ cups crushed croutons or whole grain breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 eggs or ¼ cup mayonnaise

Optional:

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Romaine, kale, or arugula for serving
  • Mini buns for sliders

Instructions
 

  • Pound chicken to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
  • Marinate chicken in Caesar dressing for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
  • Prepare breading: Mix crushed croutons, Parmesan, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
  • Set up breading station: Beat eggs or stir mayo in one bowl; place crumb mixture in another.
  • Coat chicken: Dip in egg/mayo, then press into crumb mixture until fully coated.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cutlets on parchment-lined sheet or wire rack. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
    OR Air Fry: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
    OR Pan-Fry: Cook in oil over medium heat, 3–4 minutes per side.
  • Serve: Over salad, in wraps, or on buns with extra dressing and greens.

Notes

  • Use thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Add lemon zest or garlic to breading for flavor boost.
  • Make ahead: Freeze uncooked breaded cutlets for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
  • Serve with roasted potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh Caesar salad.
  • Make it gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs or croutons.
Keyword baked chicken, Caesar chicken, chicken Caesar salad, crispy cutlets, easy dinner, meal prep, sliders