Start by laying the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast lengthwise from the thicker end to the thinner end. This will create thinner cutlets that will fry up nicely and cook evenly. Make sure to take your time with this step to ensure even pieces.
In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour with the salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. This will be the first layer of flavor for your chicken.
Next, pour the almond meal onto a separate plate. This will serve as the final coating for your chicken, adding an extra layer of crunch. Make sure you have enough space to easily coat the chicken.
In a small bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them lightly until they're well mixed. This will create a sticky mixture that helps the coating adhere.
Now it’s time to bread the chicken! Take a sliced chicken cutlet, dip it first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well coated, then roll it in the flour mixture, covering it completely. Finally, dip it back into the egg and then coat with the almond meal. Repeat this process for each cutlet, setting them aside on a plate when finished.
Grab a cast iron skillet and heat enough coconut oil over medium heat. You want the skillet to be hot before adding the chicken. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd them. Allow the chicken to cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nice, crispy exterior, and a golden color that indicates they’re perfectly cooked.
If your chicken cutlets are thicker, they may need a little longer to cook through. A quick check with a meat thermometer should show an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This will keep them crispy!
Finally, serve your pan-fried chicken with a refreshing green salad or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
