Chicken Cutlets with Apples
This delightful recipe combines tender chicken filets with the sweet and tart flavors of apples, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and elegant. The addition of wholesome oats gives the cutlets a hearty texture, while onions add a hint of savory depth. Perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper, these cutlets are first pan-fried for a crispy exterior and then baked to ensure they're cooked through. The accompanying sautéed apples with garlic and sage serve as a wonderful side, adding a burst of flavor with every bite. This dish is ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions, offering a unique twist on traditional cutlets. It's also a versatile recipe, allowing for variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. With its blend of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 400 g chicken filets
- 1 large apple (Antanovka)
- 1/2 medium-sized onion
- Salt
- Pepper
- Breadcrumbs for coating
- 4 tbsp blended whole grain oats
For the Sautéed Apples
- Butter
- Garlic cloves, sliced
- Sage
- A few spoonfuls of wine (white or red)
- Cinnamon sugar
Preparation Time
Total: approximately 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Core the apple and roughly chop it along with the chicken filets and onion.
- Make the Mixture: In a meat grinder, grind the chicken, apple, and onion until you have a consistent mixture.
- Season the Mixture: Add the blended oats, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine. The oats will help bind the mixture and add a nutty flavor.
- Form the Cutlets: Shape the mixture into small patties. For a uniform size, use a tablespoon as a guide.
- Coat the Cutlets: Roll each patty in breadcrumbs to ensure a crunchy coating once cooked.
- Pan-fry the Cutlets: In a pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Fry the cutlets on both sides until they are golden brown.
- Bake to Finish: Transfer the fried cutlets to a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
- Prepare the Sautéed Apples: Cut apples into slices or chunks.
- Heat the Skillet: In a skillet, melt some butter over high heat. Add sliced garlic, frying briefly to release the aroma.
- Cook the Apples: Add the apple pieces to the skillet with sage. Sauté for about a minute to combine the flavors.
- Add Wine: Pour in a few tablespoons of wine, add cinnamon sugar, and cook for another 3 minutes until the apples are tender and coated in a flavorful glaze.
- Choose Your Wine: While red wine adds color to apples, white wine provides a more neutral appearance. Choose based on your visual preference.
- Serving: Arrange the cutlets on a plate with sautéed apples on the side.
- Enjoy the Presentation: This dish not only tastes great but also looks appetizing on the plate.
- Adjust Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices and herbs according to your preference for a personalized touch.
- Test for Doneness: Ensure cutlets are cooked through by cutting into one and checking for clear juices.
- Garnishing: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for extra color.
- Keep Warm: If not serving immediately, keep in a warm oven to maintain temperature.
- Serving Style: Ideal for both individual platings and family-style serving.
- Leftovers: Store leftover cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate finely chopped herbs like dill or parsley into the cutlets for added freshness.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free oats.
- Pan-frying Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding cutlets to avoid them getting soggy.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 18g
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with finely chopped mushrooms and chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes to the cutlet mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Texture: Incorporate grated cheese into the mixture for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.
- Garnishes: Top with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a chilled white wine for an elegant dining experience.
Best Places
- Bistro Poularde - Known for their innovative chicken dishes with a European twist. Location: 123 Culinary Ave, Paris, France.
- Sage & Maple Cafe - Popular for their apple-themed menu and cozy ambiance. Location: 56 Orchard Street, Toronto, Canada.
- The Harvest Table - Emphasizes seasonal ingredients and exquisite preparation. Location: 78 Garden Lane, Sydney, Australia.
- Applebark Kitchen - Specializes in apple-infused dishes for a unique tasting experience. Location: 45 Core Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
- Herb & Spice Eatery - Famed for their herb-seasoned chicken creations. Location: 98 Greenway Blvd, London, England.
- The Rustic Oven - Offers wood-fired specialties with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients. Location: 12 Hearth Street, San Francisco, USA.
- Café Delights - Acclaimed for their delightful desserts and light meals including apple-focused dishes. Location: 67 Desserts Court, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- The Chicken Coop - A great spot for inventive takes on traditional chicken recipes. Location: 40 Roost Road, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Appleseed’s Grille - Perfect for those craving tangy apple flavors in savory dishes. Location: 22 Pip Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
- Fusion Feastery - Combines flavors from around the world into a cohesive, delectable menu. Location: 89 Global Way, Dubai, UAE.