Crispy chicken cutlets coated in Parmesan and breadcrumbs served with rich garlic butter orzo. A comforting, satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup orzo
2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Slice chicken breasts into cutlets and pound to even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Set up bowls with flour, eggs, and a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
Coat chicken in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mix. Let rest.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry cutlets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Stir in orzo and toast briefly. Add broth and simmer until orzo is tender, about 10–12 minutes.
Remove from heat. Stir in remaining butter, lemon zest, and season to taste.
Serve orzo with crispy chicken, lemon juice, and herbs.