What Are Chicken Cutlets Bra? A Complete Guide

Chicken cutlets bra are a unique way to prepare and cook chicken breast. As the name suggests, they are shaped to resemble a bra with two chicken breast halves forming the cups and a slice of bacon as the center strap. Chicken cutlets bra have become an internet sensation due to their unique and eye-catching shape.

What Are Chicken Cutlets?

Chicken cutlets are thin slices of chicken breast meat. To make chicken cutlets, the chicken breasts are sliced horizontally to make them thinner. This enables them to cook quickly and evenly. The chicken cutlets are then pounded with a meat mallet to make them even thinner and help them cook faster. This also tenderizes the meat. The thin cutlets cook much faster than a whole chicken breast.

Chicken cutlets are quite versatile. You can bread and fry them or sauté them and use them in chicken parmesan or other dishes. Because they are so thin, they are also great for recipes that call for thin cutlets, like chicken piccata or chicken Francese.

How to Make Chicken Cutlets Bra

Chicken cutlets bra start with two thin chicken breast cutlets. To form the bra shape:

• Take two chicken cutlets of approximately the same size and shape.

• On the thickest side of each cutlet, use a sharp knife to make a horizontal slit. This will hold something. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

• Cut a bacon slice in half. Take one half and roll it up lengthwise.

• Roll up the bacon and put it in the slit of one chicken cutlet to make a bra cup. Repeat with the other cutlet and bacon half.

• Optional: Toothpicks can be used to help the bacon stay in place. Pierce the ends of the bacon through the chicken and secure with toothpicks.

• Season the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper and any other desired seasonings. Dredge in flour, egg wash and breadcrumbs if desired.

• Set the chicken cutlets bra on medium heat in a skillet. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is done and the bacon is golden. If the chicken reaches 165°F on the inside, it is fully cooked.

• Serve the chicken cutlets bra immediately while the bacon is still warm and crispy. The toothpicks can be removed before serving if used.

Cooking Methods for Chicken Cutlets Bra

There are several ways the chicken cutlets bra can be cooked:

• Pan-fried – This is the most common method. Dredge the cutlets in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs. Fry in a skillet over medium heat with oil until golden brown and cooked through.

• Baked – For a healthier version, skip the frying and simply season the cutlets and bake in the oven at 375°F until no longer pink inside. The bacon will crisp in the oven.

• Grilled – Make them on the grill for added flavor. Oil the cutlets first so they don’t stick. Grill over direct medium heat, turning once, until done.

• Air Fryer – The air fryer makes deliciously crispy chicken cutlets bra without all the oil. Cook at 400°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cutlets Bra

Chicken cutlets bra pair well with a variety of sides and sauces:

• Serve with roasted potatoes or rice and a green veggie for a full meal.

• Top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for chicken parmigiana cutlets bra.

• Drizzle with lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.

• Pair with pasta in a creamy sauce for a chicken alfredo bra dinner.

• For breakfast or brunch, top with country gravy or sawmill gravy.

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives.

Why Are Chicken Cutlets Bra Shaped Like a Bra?

So why shape chicken cutlets into a bra? There are a few reasons this cooking method has become popular:

• Novelty – The unique shape makes them fun and attention-grabbing. Chicken cutlets bra are perfect for social media and entertaining.

• Flavors – Bacon complemented by chicken is a tasty flavor combination. The crispy salty bacon pairs nicely with the tender chicken.

• Easy prep – It’s a simple way to incorporate bacon into chicken cutlets without having to wrap each cutlet. Just one slit and bacon strip per cutlet creates the shape.

• Quick cook time – The thin cutlets cook fast, and the bacon crisps up nicely. It’s a quick weeknight dinner option.

• Fun presentation – The bra shape makes for a cute meal presentation that puts a smile on people’s faces. It adds some whimsy to dinnertime.

So while the bra shape originated as a bit of a gimmick, it has endured because it results in a delicious, fun and easy chicken dinner. Chicken cutlets bra are sure to impress at your next dinner party or weeknight family meal.

Variations for Chicken Cutlets Bra

The basic concept of chicken cutlets shaped into a bra with bacon can be modified in several ways:

• Use turkey or pork cutlets instead of chicken.

• Try different types of bacon like applewood smoked or peppered.

• Stuff the bacon pockets with cheese cubes for cheesy bacon bra cups.

• Swap out the bacon with cooked breakfast sausage patties.

• For a veggie version, use eggplant or zucchini cutlets with roasted red peppers as the strap.

• Get creative with different seasonings on the cutlets like lemon pepper or Italian herbs.

• Bread with panko, corn flakes or pork rinds instead of standard breadcrumbs.

• Drizzle with your favorite sauces like buffalo, barbecue or teriyaki.

• Make smaller appetizer-sized chicken cutlets bra for party platters.

Tips for Making Chicken Cutlets Bra

Here are some helpful tips for perfect chicken cutlets bra every time:

• Use thick, equal-sized chicken breasts to cut uniform cutlets that will cook evenly.

• Cut the breasts horizontally, not vertically, to yield large enough cutlets for the bra shape.

• Pound the cutlets thinly so they cook quickly. 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch thick is ideal.

• Chill the cutlets in the fridge for 30 minutes before breading to help the coating stick better.

• Don’t overstuff the bacon into the slits or it may fall out. Compact just enough to create the shape.

• Cook over medium heat to prevent burning. Adjust heat as needed to cook evenly.

• Let the cutlets rest a few minutes before serving so juices redistribute.

• Slice diagonally across the bra when serving for attractive presentation.

Are Chicken Cutlets Bra Healthy?

While not the lowest calorie option, chicken cutlets bra can be a relatively healthy meal when prepared properly.

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein. Using thin cutlets reduces the calories while keeping the protein intake up.

Opting for baking, grilling or air frying rather than pan frying adds to the health factor by avoiding added cooking oil.

The bacon adds some saturated fat, sodium and calories, but using just one slice per cutlet keeps this in check.

Overall, chicken cutlets bra provide a good balance of protein, flavor, and fun. Portion sizes are smaller than a whole chicken breast, so the calorie count per serving is reasonable.

Compared to fried chicken, nuggets, or many take-out options, homemade chicken cutlets bra can be a healthier alternative with fresh ingredients. Pairing the cutlets with veggies and whole grains boosts the nutritional profile.

In moderation, chicken cutlets bra can absolutely be part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Cutlets Bra

Raw chicken cutlets bra can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days until ready to cook. Place them on a plate or pan lined with paper towels and cover loosely with plastic wrap or foil. The paper towels absorb excess moisture.

To freeze, prepare the cutlets bra but don’t cook them. Place in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined pan or plate and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date.

Frozen raw chicken cutlets bra can be stored for 2-3 months before quality declines. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Cooked chicken cutlets bra can also be frozen. Let cool completely, then place in freezer bags or containers. Reheat directly from frozen by baking in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through. The texture may become slightly drier after freezing.

With proper storage in the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy convenient chicken cutlets bra whenever the craving strikes!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cutlets Bra

What kind of chicken is best for cutlets bra?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. Opt for thick breasts to yield cutlets large enough for the bra shape. Avoid pre-cut thin cutlets, which may be too small.

What’s the best bacon for chicken cutlets bra?

Regular sliced bacon is the classic choice, but any bacon will work. Flavored bacon like peppered or maple add extra taste. Turkey bacon can be substituted to reduce fat.

How do I keep the bacon from falling out when I flip the cutlets?

Use toothpicks pierced through both ends of the bacon and chicken to hold the shape if needed. Don’t overstuff the bacon into the slits. Compact just enough to create the shape.

Can I make them without breading?

Absolutely! Season and cook the cutlets bra plain for a lower carb, paleo or gluten-free option. The bacon will still crisp up nicely.

How long do chicken cutlets bra take to cook?

About 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Cook over medium heat until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the bacon is crisp.

Can I prepare them in advance?

You can bread the raw cutlets bra ahead of time and refrigerate for several hours before cooking. Cooked cutlets bra don’t hold well and are best served immediately.

How should I cut the chicken cutlets bra for serving?

Slice diagonally across the bra to showcase the unique shape. Be sure to remove any toothpicks first if used while cooking.

Can kids help make chicken cutlets bra?

Yes, this is a great dish to get kids involved in the kitchen! Let them prepare the cutlets and bacon under supervision for a fun cooking lesson.

Chicken cutlets bra are a playful spin on a family favorite that result in a tasty anytime meal. With this complete guide detailing how to make, cook, and serve this internet-famous dish, you can put together a unique chicken dinner that’s sure to impress. Have fun with the presentation and customize to your tastes. Chicken cutlets bra are the perfect centerpiece for your next weeknight dinner or backyard cookout.