A delightful twist on a classic chicken recipe, featuring a crispy Parmesan crust and tender chicken.
Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray.
Using parchment paper on the baking sheet can make cleanup easier.
In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and ground black pepper.
Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner pieces, then place them between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat.
Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Ensure the chicken is fully coated for maximum crispiness.
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serve the crispy Parmesan chicken cutlets warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.