How to Make Fried Chicken Cutlet (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Fried Chicken Cutlet is a beloved staple across Singapore's vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams, often enjoyed as a hearty lunch or a satisfying snack. This dish features succulent chicken fillets, marinated and coated in a crispy golden crust, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite. While traditionally deep-fried, this healthy Singaporean recipe offers a lighter approach, using air-frying or shallow frying with minimal oil to reduce calories without compromising on flavour. The Fried Chicken Cutlet has become a fusion favourite, blending local spices and influences from various ethnic groups that make up Singapore’s multicultural food scene. Its popularity stems from its accessibility and adaptability—served solo or as part of a rice or noodle set, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages. This recipe embraces the essence of Singaporean hawker culture, where comfort food meets innovation, making it perfect for calorie-conscious foodies seeking authentic taste. With its juicy interior and aromatic crust, the Singaporean Fried Chicken Cutlet is a testament to the city’s fusion food philosophy. Its versatility and universal appeal mean you’ll often find it featured in lunch menus and even as a quick takeaway option, making it a great choice for busy Singaporeans looking for a wholesome, tasty meal.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Pound chicken breasts evenly to about 1cm thickness using a meat ma...
Pound chicken breasts evenly to about 1cm thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Step 2 · Season chicken with salt
Season chicken with salt, white pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let it marinate for 5 minutes.
Step 3 · Prepare three bowls: one with corn starch
Prepare three bowls: one with corn starch, one with beaten egg mixed with low-fat milk, and one with whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Step 4 · Dredge each chicken piece in corn starch
Dredge each chicken piece in corn starch, dip in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Step 5 · Lightly spray both sides of the cutlets with cooking spray
Lightly spray both sides of the cutlets with cooking spray. Place in an air-fryer at 180°C for 10 minutes, turning once halfway. Alternatively, shallow fry with minimal oil over medium heat.
Step 6 · Remove cutlets from the air-fryer or pan
Remove cutlets from the air-fryer or pan. Let them rest for 2 minutes to retain juiciness.
Step 7 · Serve hot with mixed salad greens for a balanced meal
Serve hot with mixed salad greens for a balanced meal.
Why this recipe is healthy
By using lean poultry, whole wheat crumbs, and air-frying, this dish fits perfectly into balanced diets. It cuts back on excess oil and processed carbs, making it suitable for weight loss, muscle building, and diabetic-friendly meal plans. The inclusion of natural seasonings and salad enhances nutrient diversity while keeping the calories in check.
A note on tradition
Fried Chicken Cutlet is a modern classic in Singapore, popular in food courts and kopitiams from Orchard Road to heartland neighbourhoods. It reflects the multicultural fusion of Singapore’s food scene—Chinese, Malay, and Western influences come together in this dish. Often eaten for lunch with rice or noodles, it’s a favourite among students and office workers seeking affordable, tasty meals. Its versatility and familiar flavours make it a mainstay across Singapore’s bustling hawker culture.