^{This post has been sponsored by Andria's Food Group. All opinions expressed are my own.}

Savor the Flavors of Summer with our irresistible BBQ Marinated Cutlets, prepared with a little help from our dear friends over at Andria’s Steakhouse, whose exceptional Barbecue Sauce helped elevate today’s recipe to mouthwatering perfection.

As the sun-drenched days of summer unfold, what better way to kick off the festivities than with tantalizing BBQ Marinated Cutlets? With their delectable crunchy exterior and moist, succulent interior, they are the epitome of summer deliciousness.

One bite of these BBQ Marinated Cutlets, and you'll be greeted with a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, juicy meat. The combination of the crispy panko coating and the succulent chicken creates a delightful contrast of textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether enjoyed on its own or nestled in a soft bun as a sandwich, these cutlets are sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.

To take these BBQ Marinated Cutlets to new heights of flavor, we've partnered with the esteemed Andria's Steakhouse, who have become renowned for their exceptional quality and flavorful sauces. Andria's Barbecue Sauce, the star ingredient of this recipe, adds a layer of smoky sweetness that beautifully enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

Now, let's talk about the perfect accompaniments to help complete this summer feast. Picture a bountiful table adorned with vibrant salads bursting with seasonal produce—crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing cucumbers. Toss them in a zesty vinaigrette or a creamy dressing, and let the freshness of these salads provide a bright contrast to the smoky, savory chicken cutlets.

You might also consider pairing these BBQ Marinated Cutlets with classic summer staples like grilled corn on the cob, caramelized to perfection with a touch of char and butter. The natural sweetness of the corn complements the tangy barbecue flavors. And don't forget to add a refreshing side of coleslaw or a medley of grilled vegetables—think zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant—lightly seasoned and charred to bring out their natural sweetness.

Read on for an ingredient checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need. We’ll also be covering some frying tips to make these and other fried delights come out perfect every time. And, of course, we’ll be ending off on some pairing tips.

Now, without further introduction, let’s fry up some BBQ Marinated Cutlets.

Ingredient Checklist – Couldn’t Be Simpler

These chicken cutlets are incredibly pantry friendly, requiring just six ingredients, along with salt and pepper.

1 - 1 1/2 lbs. of boneless, skinless chicken breast - sliced thin
- Tip: Chicken tenders or chicken thighs can be used as alternatives for chicken breast.
- Note: Adjust the quantity of chicken based on the number of servings desired.
1 cup of Andria's Barbecue Sauce
- Note: A flavor-packed delight that perfectly complements our crispy BBQ Marinated Cutlets. This sensational sauce strikes the ideal balance between savory and smoky, featuring a rich, sweet undertone and a luxuriously thick texture. While it's an exceptional match for grilling favorites like roasts, steaks, burgers, and sausages, its versatility extends to heartier seafood options such as shark or salmon. Whether you're savoring it as a dipping sauce or serving it alongside grilled meats, Andria's Barbecue Sauce promises to captivate your taste buds. With its bold flavors and velvety consistency, this sauce is a must-have for any occasion. Give it a try and discover why it's destined to become one of your favorite culinary companions. And while you're at it, explore their Brush on Steak Sauce and delectable Salad Dressing too!
1 cup of all-purpose flour
- Tip: Feel free to use a gluten-free alternative.
1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- Tip: If Panko breadcrumbs are not available, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
2 - 3 eggs - plus a splash of water - beaten
- Note: The number of eggs can be adjusted depending on the amount of chicken and the desired level of coating.
Vegetable oil - for frying
- Note: You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or any neutral-flavored oil suitable for frying. I would stay away from using olive oil for frying, however, as it is not flavor neutral, and will burn at the temperatures required for frying.

Pairing Ideas – Completing the Summer Feast

Classic BBQ Side Dishes: Serve your BBQ Marinated Cutlets with classic side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread. The creamy and tangy flavors of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken, while the rich and buttery cornbread complements the savory flavors. You can also add a side of baked beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Grilled Vegetables: Take advantage of the summer season and fire up the grill for some delicious grilled vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and corn on the cob are fantastic options. The smoky char and natural sweetness of grilled vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the BBQ chicken. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred.
Fresh Green Salad: Balance the richness of the BBQ Marinated Cutlets with a light and crisp green salad. Toss together a mix of fresh salad greens, such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula, and add some colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes. Top it off with a tangy vinaigrette dressing to add a zesty kick.
Summer Fruit Salsa: Add a burst of freshness to your meal with a vibrant summer fruit salsa. Combine diced ripe mangoes, pineapples, peaches, or watermelon with red onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. This fruity and slightly spicy salsa pairs wonderfully with the BBQ chicken, adding a tropical touch to your plate.
Refreshing Beverages: Quench your thirst and complement the flavors of the BBQ Marinated Cutlets with refreshing summer beverages. Serve ice-cold lemonade, sweet tea, or fruity iced drinks like raspberry lemonade or watermelon mint cooler.

Ten Tips For Frying – Make It Perfect Every Time

Yes, these tips apply to deep-frying, as well as frying in a cast iron pan.

Choose the Right Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying. These oils can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down, resulting in a crispier exterior. Importantly, these oils are also flavor neutral.
Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature: Proper oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Use a deep-fry or candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the exterior may burn before the interior cooks through, and if it's too cool, the food will become greasy. It is also critically important that the temperature remain steady throughout the frying process for even cooking.
Maintain Consistent Oil Temperature: To maintain a consistent oil temperature, avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in small batches, giving the food enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy and greasy food.
Use a Deep-Fry Thermometer: Investing in a deep-fry thermometer is highly recommended. This tool allows you to accurately monitor the oil temperature, ensuring optimal frying conditions and consistent results.
Dredge and Coat Properly: To achieve a crispy crust, properly coat the food before frying. Dredge the food in flour, dip it in an egg wash or batter, and then coat it with breadcrumbs (or whatever you happen to be coating the food with). Make sure the food is evenly coated, as this helps to create a barrier that locks in moisture.
Fry in Small Batches: Fry smaller portions of food at a time to maintain the oil temperature. Adding too much food at once will lower the temperature, resulting in soggy and unevenly cooked food. Fry in small batches, allowing each piece to have enough space to cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture.
Use a Spider or Slotted Spoon: A spider or slotted spoon is a handy tool for frying. It allows you to gently lower the food into the oil and retrieve it easily without excess oil. This helps to maintain the desired crispy texture and reduce greasiness.
Drain on a Wire Rack: Instead of placing fried food directly on paper towels, use a wire rack. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the food, preventing it from becoming soggy due to trapped steam. This helps to maintain the crispy exterior.
Keep the Area Clean: Frying can be a messy process, but it's important to keep the cooking area clean and free from any excess oil or food particles. Wipe down surfaces regularly and be cautious of oil splatters.
Fry Safely: Safety is paramount when frying. Never leave hot oil unattended. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can lead to dangerous oil splatters. Use long tongs or a spider to handle the food, and be mindful of the oil's temperature and any potential hazards.

Alternative Cooking Methods – A Brief Primer

Air Fryer: If you prefer a healthier option with less oil, consider using an air fryer to prepare your BBQ chicken cutlets. Preheat the air fryer to around 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The circulating hot air will help create a crispy exterior similar to frying, while keeping the interior moist. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the cutlets, so adjust accordingly.
Grilling: Take advantage of the summer season and fire up the grill to cook your BBQ chicken cutlets. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken cutlets on the grill (yes, if grilling, we’re skipping the breading) and cook for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The direct heat of the grill will impart a smoky flavor to the chicken, enhancing its overall taste. Baste the cutlets with the BBQ sauce during grilling for an extra layer of flavor.
Oven Baking: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can also bake the BBQ chicken cutlets in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy. Flip the cutlets halfway through for even browning.