Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches

If you’re on the hunt for a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and has that irresistible Italian flair, you’ve landed in the right spot! These Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches are everything you could wish for: crispy, savory, and topped with delicious, fresh ingredients. Made with tender chicken cutlets, a zesty pesto mayo, and vibrant veggies, this sandwich will have your taste buds dancing. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, let’s dive into this delectable recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches are not only incredibly satisfying but also versatile. You can customize them to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The crispy chicken cutlets provide a hearty base, while the combination of pesto and mayonnaise adds a creamy, herbaceous twist. Plus, with the addition of roasted red peppers and provolone cheese, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a weekend gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are a guaranteed hit!

What We’re Using

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder, divided
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 tablespoon fresh ground pepper, divided
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound broccoli rabe, chopped into 2-inch long pieces
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons pesto
• 6 to 8 slices provolone cheese
• ½ cup roasted red pepper
• 1 loaf ciabatta bread, cut in half lengthwise

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large Bowls: For mixing the breading and the pesto mayo.
• Frying Pan: To cook the chicken cutlets until crispy.
• Spatula: For flipping the chicken and moving the sandwiches.
• Knife: For slicing ingredients and the ciabatta bread.
• Cutting Board: Essential for prepping the veggies and chicken.
• Meat Mallet: To flatten the chicken for even cooking.
• Whisk: For mixing the milk and eggs effectively.

Step-by-Step: Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by using a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, ½ tablespoon of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, ½ tablespoon of kosher salt, and ½ tablespoon of fresh ground pepper. In another dish, pour in the low-fat milk. In a third dish, mix the Panko bread crumbs with the remaining garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and the rest of the salt and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Coat each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip the floured cutlet into the milk, allowing the excess to drip off, then dredge in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Sauté the Broccoli Rabe

In the same frying pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss in the chopped broccoli rabe. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender and vibrant, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 6: Make the Pesto Mayo

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and pesto, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy spread that’s packed with flavor.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Slice the ciabatta bread in half and spread a generous layer of pesto mayo on both sides. Layer on the crispy chicken cutlets, followed by sautéed broccoli rabe, slices of roasted red pepper, and provolone cheese.

Step 8: Grill the Sandwiches (Optional)

If you’d like, you can grill the assembled sandwiches in a panini press or on a skillet. Just press down lightly, and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Enjoy with a side salad or some crispy potato chips for a delightful meal!

Swap Guide

• Chicken: Substitute with turkey cutlets or eggplant for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese: Try mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Bread: Use whole grain or gluten-free bread if desired.
• Pesto: Make your own with spinach or arugula for a fresh twist.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Chicken Not Cooking Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Wet Breading: Ensure each piece is well-coated in flour before dipping in milk to prevent sogginess.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper frying without steaming.
• Cheese Not Melting: Cover the pan with a lid when cooking to trap heat and melt the cheese effectively.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Wrap any remaining sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use an oven to warm them and get the bread crispy again.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread and cook the chicken cutlets ahead of time. Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bread crispy.

What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, crispy fries, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the chicken cutlets?

Absolutely! After cooking, allow the chicken cutlets to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. They can be reheated directly from frozen.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Final Bite

There you have it! A delicious and satisfying recipe for Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches that will undoubtedly impress your friends and family. With crispy chicken, creamy pesto mayo, and vibrant veggies, this sandwich is a fantastic way to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with us! Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your Italian Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches!