Crispy Honey-Garlic Glazed Cutlets

 

 Ingredients 

For the Cutlets:

• 4 thin-sliced chicken breasts (paillards) or thin-cut boneless pork loin chops (about $1/2$ inch thick)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, whisked

• 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (for the ultimate crispiness)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil) for pan-frying

For the Honey-Garlic Glaze:

• 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions: 

Step 1: Prepare the Cutlets
If your cutlets are thick, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even $1/4$ to $1/2$ inch thickness. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Set up a standard breading station:

Plate 1 (Flour): Mix the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Plate 2 (Eggs): Whisk the eggs well.

Plate 3 (Panko): Spread the Panko breadcrumbs evenly.

Dredge each cutlet: first completely coat in flour, then dip in egg wash (letting excess drip off), and finally press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs to ensure a thick, even crust.

Step 2: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering.

Carefully place the breaded cutlets in the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary).

Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the cutlets are cooked through (internal temperature of $165^\circ \text{F}$ for chicken or $145^\circ \text{F}$ for pork).

Transfer the crispy cutlets to a baking sheet lined with foil (as pictured) or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, and ground ginger (if using).

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Stir the cornstarch slurry and whisk it into the simmering sauce. Continue to whisk for about 1 minute until the glaze thickens significantly and becomes clear and sticky.

Remove from heat and stir in the sesame oil (if using).

Step 4: Glaze and Serve
You have two options for the final coating:

Option A (As Pictured – Recommended): Brush or spoon the glaze generously over the warm, crispy cutlets while they are still on the foil-lined baking sheet. The heat will help the glaze set slightly.

Option B (Sauce on the Side): Serve the cutlets immediately and drizzle the glaze over the top just before serving, or offer it on the side for dipping.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions for color and freshness.

Serve immediately with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad. Enjoy your perfectly Crispy Honey-Garlic Cutlets!