Easy Low Carb Garlic Parmesan Chicken Cutlets in the Oven (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

Chicken Cutlets in the Oven with Garlic and Parmesan is an easy chicken recipe that’s perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. The chicken cutlets are coated in a mixture of garlic, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning and then baked until crispy and golden brown.

As a busy homeschooling parent, I always search for quick, easy, and healthy lunch ideas that keep my family fueled and focused. This Chicken Cutlets in the Oven with Garlic and Parmesan recipe is one of our favorites. The garlic and parmesan cheese add a delicious flavor to the chicken cutlets, while the crispy coating gives them a satisfying crunch.

The first time we tested this recipe, it was eaten so fast. My entire family and Jules, one of our food photographers, all thought it was def a keeper! Since these chicken cutlets have no breadcrumbs, they are low-carb, which is fantastic if you are reducing carbs.

I can meal-prep this chicken by preparing all the ingredients and freezing them in a storage bag. That way, I can defrost it the night before and pop it in the oven at lunchtime. I can roast green beans or broccoli in the air fryer or quickly throw together while it’s cooking for a healthy meal.

I can also slice the chicken to add to salads. My girls love salads, like this spinach salad with hot bacon dressing or healthy kale crunch salad recipe.

If you prefer, you can pre-cook the chicken and reheat it when you are ready to enjoy it.

Ingredients For Tender Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets:

• Boneless, skinless chicken cutlets: The main protein source in the dish. You can buy regular chicken breasts and pound them to make them thin to save money.
• Italian seasoning: This is a mix of yummy herbs that will give your chicken tons of flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead.
• Salt: Brings the natural chicken flavors
• Black pepper: Provides some subtle heat.
• Onion powder: Gives a slightly sweet and savory taste that goes really well with chicken. You can finely chop some fresh onion if you don’t have any.
• Olive oil: Helps the chicken turn a nice golden brown color while it cooks and makes sure the coating sticks well to the cutlets. You can also use avocado oil.
• Minced garlic:  This is what gives the dish that yummy, garlicky flavor. You can add more or less garlic, depending on how much you like.
• Grated Parmesan cheese is the key ingredient for that cheesy, savory flavor. It’s best to use freshly grated Parmesan for the most delicious results.
• Fresh parsley: A bright and fresh flavor to the chicken
• Unsalted butter: Makes the recipe even richer and helps create a crispy, golden brown coating. If you’re using salted butter, add less salt to the recipe.

Steps For Making Parmesan Chicken Cutlet Recipe In Oven

*this is a step-by-step guide for visual learners; scroll to the bottom of the post for complete recipe instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is getting nice and hot, grab your chicken cutlets and season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. These spices will make your chicken taste amazing! Once you’ve seasoned your chicken, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and melted butter in a shallow bowl. Mix well until the mixture is evenly combined. Spoon the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken cutlet, pressing it down lightly.

Tip: You can use your hands to gently press the topping onto the chicken so it sticks well. I have to admit, I’m not a big fan of touching raw meat. So, whenever I make recipes like this, I usually wear gloves if I have to touch them.

Step 2:Pop the skillet or baking sheet into the oven and let the chicken bake for about 12-15 minutes. To make sure your chicken is cooked just right, use a meat thermometer to check that the inside of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tip: If you want the topping to be extra crispy and golden brown, you can turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken cutlets rest for 3-4 minutes. Serve hot and garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired!

Top Tips And Tricks For Cooking Crispy Chicken Cutlets In Oven

• Pound the chicken to even thickness: When my chicken breasts are too thick or uneven, I pound them gently between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps even out the thickness and makes them thinner for better cooking.
• Pat the chicken dry: Before seasoning the chicken, I like to pat it dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives the chicken a nice, golden brown color.
• Let the chicken come to room temperature: Try to remove your chicken from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before cooking so that it is brought to room temperature—it helps the chicken cook better overall!
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: If I want to take the extra time, I like using freshly grated Parmesan because it adds SO much flavor to the recipe.
• Grate the Parmesan finely: When you grate the Parmesan cheese, use the smallest holes on your grater to get a really fine texture.
• Brush the chicken with oil: Before applying the seasoning mix, lightly brush the chicken with olive oil to help the seasoning stick better.
• Use a meat thermometer: To make sure that the chicken is cooked through, I like to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
• Garnish with extra parsley: I always set aside some fresh parsley to garnish the chicken after cooking because it gives some fun color and additional flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. You might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take longer to cook through.

Is it necessary to use fresh parsley, or can I use dried parsley?

While fresh parsley is best for the flavor and appearance, you can use dried parsley if that’s what you have in the house. Just use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe because dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

 Can I make this recipe without a meat thermometer?

While a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to make sure your chicken is cooked through, you can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear and there is no pink meat visible.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, oil the grates, and cook the seasoned chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How can I make the topping crispier?

To make the chicken crispier, broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Cool your chicken to room temperature and store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until 165°F (74°C). I like to remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to make the topping crispy.
Microwave: Place chicken on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through!

Recipe Variations

• Substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Replace Parmesan cheese with grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika to the garlic Parmesan mixture.
• Add grated lemon zest to the seasoning for a bright, citrusy note.
• Use shredded mozzarella cheese in combination with Parmesan for a more melty, gooey topping.

More Keto Chicken Recipes:

• Chicken Lombardy Recipe
• Easy Keto Baked Chicken Fajitas Recipe
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
• Keto Crack Chicken Bake