Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 servings. Ingredient amounts are for the original recipe; cooking times remain the same.

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian herb seasoning
• 6 chicken breast cutlets (4 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace.
2. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, and Italian herb seasoning.
3. Pat chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. If any cutlets are thicker on one end, lightly pound them to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle both sides with the seasoning mixture.
4. Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is hot and the butter has melted. Adjust heat to medium if necessary.
5. Place cutlets in the skillet in a single layer. Cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if needed. Remove cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and stir, scraping up any browned bits. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
8. Return the browned chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet, coating each piece in the sauce. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
9. Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Simmer the pan juices for 1 to 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Pour sauce over chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 361
• Total Fat: 15g (20% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (24% DV)
• Cholesterol: 173mg (58% DV)
• Sodium: 738mg (32% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 37g (73% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 64mg (5% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 353mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on ingredients used. Consult a professional for medically restrictive diets.

History of Origin

Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets trace their roots to classic European home cooking, where simple ingredients were combined to create flavorful everyday meals. The tradition of pan-frying thinly sliced meat emerged in France and Italy, where cooks favored quick preparation and rich, aromatic sauces. Over time, the recipe transformed into a modern American favorite, keeping its Old World charm while adapting to new culinary preferences.

Regional Variations

In different regions, this dish takes on diverse personalities. Italian-inspired versions may include a splash of white wine or lemon juice to brighten the sauce, while French adaptations often emphasize butter-forward richness with fresh herbs. In the American South, cooks occasionally add paprika or cayenne for heat, giving the cutlets a warm, smoky twist. Every region preserves the core flavors of garlic and butter but introduces its own local flair.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike chicken piccata, which relies heavily on lemon and capers, Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets focus on the deep, comforting aroma of sauted garlic. Compared to chicken scampi, the sauce here is thicker and more buttery, lacking the strong acidity typically associated with scampi-style dishes. The simplicity of ingredients also distinguishes it from breaded cutlets like schnitzel, offering a lighter texture without sacrificing richness.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This dish is frequently featured in casual bistros, family-owned restaurants, and home kitchens where quick yet satisfying dinners are essential. It pairs effortlessly with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Many caf-style eateries also serve it as part of lunch specials due to its fast preparation and universal appeal.

Interesting Facts

Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets have become popular in meal-prep communities thanks to their excellent reheating qualities and versatility. The use of garlic as a primary flavor dates back thousands of years, valued not only for taste but also for its perceived medicinal properties. Despite its simplicity, the dish often appears on special-occasion menus, proving that humble ingredients can create restaurant-quality results. Its widespread popularity also stems from its adaptabilitycooks can elevate it with mushrooms, cream, or fresh citrus without losing its signature character.

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