Chicken Cutlet Hero Recipe

Prepare the chicken

Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets (or pound to 1/4-inch thickness between plastic wrap). Trim any fat. Pat dry with paper towels.

Season & set up breading station

Season both sides of the cutlets with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with 2 tbs milk until combined. In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Bread the cutlets

Dredge each cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip, and press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. Place breaded cutlets on a plate and let rest 5 minutes to adhere.

Fry the cutlets

In a large skillet heat 1 cup vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering and 350°F (use a thermometer if available). Add cutlets in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or paper towels to drain. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F) if needed.

Warm the marinara

While cutlets rest, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until gently simmering, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if desired.

Toast the rolls

Split hero rolls and spread 1/2 tbs butter on each cut side. Toast cut-side down in a skillet or under broiler until lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.

Top cutlets with sauce & cheese

Place a fried cutlet on a foil-lined baking sheet or ovenproof skillet. Spoon about 1/4 cup warm marinara over each cutlet, then top with 3 oz shredded or sliced mozzarella per cutlet. Place under a broiler or in a 400°F oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2–4 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.

Build the hero

Open each toasted roll and place the sauced, cheesy cutlet inside. Add a few fresh basil leaves if using. Close the roll and, if desired, cut the hero in half. Serve immediately with the choice of side salad.

Toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add croutons and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Serve chilled alongside the hero.