Article Body.
Introduction.
Bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table with this quick and easy recipe for thin chicken cutlets with a light, crisp coating. This delicious meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an authentic Italian-inspired dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients.
To prepare this tasty Italian dinner for two people, you’ll need the following items.
1. 3/4 pound chicken cutlets.
2. 1 container plain panko breadcrumbs.
3. 1 small piece of Parmesan cheese.
4. 1 bottle ground oregano.
5. 1 small bottle capers.
6. 1 lemon.
7. 1 bunch fresh basil.
8. 1 package spaghetti.
9. 1 bottle reduced-sodium pasta sauce.
Instructions.
Step 1: Prepare the chicken cutlets.
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C. While it’s heating up, place the chicken cutlets between two sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or heavy skillet to pound them until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure that they cook evenly and quickly in the oven.
Step 2: Create the breadcrumb coating.
In a shallow dish, mix together the plain panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and ground oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Coat the chicken cutlets.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the prepared breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so that the crumbs adhere to both sides of the chicken. Shake off any excess before placing the coated cutlets onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the chicken.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Cook the spaghetti.
While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot.
Step 6: Warm the pasta sauce.
In a separate saucepan, heat the reduced-sodium pasta sauce over low heat until warmed through.
Step 7: Combine the spaghetti and sauce.
Add the warmed pasta sauce to the cooked spaghetti in the pot, tossing gently to combine.
Step 8: Serve the meal.
To serve, divide the chicken cutlets between two plates along with a portion of spaghetti topped with some extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish each plate with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for added flavor and color.
1. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced garlic to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
2. For a spicier kick, mix in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper with the breadcrumb coating.
3. Swap out the Parmesan cheese for grated Asiago or Romano cheese for a different taste.
4. Add 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta sauce for additional depth of flavor.
Conclusion.
With its simple yet delicious ingredients, this Italian-inspired dinner is sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of crispy chicken cutlets and satisfying spaghetti makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still full of flavor. So why not give this recipe a try tonight and bring the taste of Italy right into your own kitchen.