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Pan Seared Chicken Cutlets

This easy pan seared chicken cutlets recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients to create tender, juicy chicken pieces that cook in minutes. Foolproof and versatile, they're perfect for easy weeknight dinners and meal prep!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time4 minutes
Rest Time30 minutes
Total Time39 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Keyword: chicken cutlets recipe, healthy chicken cutlets, pan seared chicken cutlets
Method: Stove Top
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8-12 chicken cutlets or 6 breasts cut into cutlets (see below
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil more as needed, for cooking

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

  • Slice each chicken breast lengthwise through the thickest part to create two thinner cutlets. Cutting slightly against the grain helps keep them tender. Once sliced, use a meat tenderizer to gently pound each piece to about 1/2 inch thick.

Season the cutlets

  • Lay the chicken in a single layer on a cutting board or tray. In a small bowl, combine all of the spices with the gluten free flour. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of each cutlet.

Let the chicken rest

  • Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step helps the cutlets stay juicy and cook evenly.

Sear the first side

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm until it shimmers. Place the cutlets in the pan without crowding. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes without moving them, until a golden crust forms.

Finish cooking

  • Flip each cutlet and cook for another 2 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Continue cooking in batches, adding additional oil to the pan as needed.

Notes

  • Resting the chicken before cooking helps the seasoning adhere and keeps the cutlets moist.
  • If your pan is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming.
  • Thicker cutlets may need an extra minute or two of cooking time. Check for doneness by slicing into the center.
  • Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or enjoy chilled on salads.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 93kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 585mg | Potassium: 32mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 179IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg