Chicken marinated in tangy pickle brine, coated in crispy panko, and pan-fried to golden perfection.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
02 - 1 ½ cups dill pickle brine
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
→ Coating
06 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 2 tablespoons water
09 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
10 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
12 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
→ For Frying
13 - ½ cup neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower)
→ Serving (optional)
14 - Lemon wedges
15 - Fresh dill, chopped
# Steps to Follow:
01 - Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap sheets and flatten to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
02 - Combine chicken, pickle brine, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
03 - Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Set up three shallow bowls with flour; beaten eggs mixed with water; and panko breadcrumbs combined with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt.
04 - Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip into egg mixture, and finally coat evenly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
05 - Warm neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
06 - Cook chicken cutlets in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
07 - Transfer cooked cutlets to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
08 - Serve hot, optionally garnished with lemon wedges and chopped fresh dill.
