Spicy Baked Chicken Cutlets – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

If you’re looking to add a spicy kick to your chicken cutlets, look no further! Spicy baked chicken cutlets bring a bold and vibrant flavor to the table while keeping things healthy and easy. This recipe adds a zesty twist to the classic chicken cutlet by infusing it with the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

Instead of frying, the cutlets are baked to crispy perfection in the oven, making them a lighter and healthier option without compromising on taste. Whether you’re craving something spicy for dinner or looking to impress your guests, these cutlets are sure to become a favorite in your household.

What Are Spicy Baked Chicken Cutlets?

Spicy baked chicken cutlets are boneless chicken breasts coated in a spicy seasoning mix, breaded, and baked to crispy perfection. The heat comes from a combination of chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, which gives the chicken a deep, flavorful kick.

This recipe offers the same crispy texture you love from fried cutlets, but without the extra calories and oil. Baking the chicken keeps it juicy on the inside while creating a crunchy, flavorful crust on the outside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Spicy: A perfect blend of heat and flavor that gives a twist to the classic chicken cutlet.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried for a lighter dish.
• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner
• Juicy and Crispy: The chicken remains moist inside with a crispy coating on the outside.
• Perfect for Spice Lovers: If you love a little heat, this recipe is for you!

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

• In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until beaten.
• In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

• Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Press the cutlet into the breadcrumb-spice mixture, ensuring it is well-coated on both sides.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

• Place the breaded chicken cutlets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray for added crispiness.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Step 4: Serve The Spicy Baked Chicken Cutlets

• Let the cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a cooling yogurt dip to balance the spice.

Tips for Perfection!

• Adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicier version.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
• Rest the chicken after baking to lock in the juices.
• For a cooling dip, try pairing these cutlets with a yogurt-based sauce or ranch dressing.

Spicy baked chicken cutlets are the perfect way to turn up the heat on a traditional favorite without sacrificing health or convenience. They’re ideal for those who love bold flavors but want to avoid deep frying. Serve them with a cooling yogurt dip, in a sandwich, or over a fresh salad for a well-balanced meal.

For best results, be sure to follow proper baking techniques to lock in moisture—check out our guide on how to bake chicken cutlets without drying them out. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and simple to make.

FAQs