18 Juicy Pork Cutlet Recipes Without Breading for a Healthier Meal

Carmen Eldridge

April 11, 2025

When it comes to cooking pork cutlets, many people reach for breadcrumbs and frying pans. But what if you could achieve that same crispy exterior without all the extra calories? In this article, we’re exploring 18 delicious pork cutlet recipes that skip the breading altogether, focusing instead on bold flavors and techniques to bring out the best in these tender cuts of meat.

From classic pairings like garlic butter and lemon zest to more adventurous combinations like honey soy glaze and spicy chili lime, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these breading-free pork cutlet recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Garlic Butter Pork Cutlets with Lemon Zest

Garlic Butter Pork Cutlets with Lemon Zest
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Pan-seared pork cutlets are smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with a burst of citrusy lemon zest.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cutlets; cook 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
4. Remove pork from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add white wine (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon zest. Cook 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve pork cutlets with garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pan-Seared Pork Cutlets with Rosemary and Thyme

Pan-Seared Pork Cutlets with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your dinner table with this aromatic and flavorful dish featuring pan-seared pork cutlets infused with the essence of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat.
4. Sear the pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped rosemary and thyme to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Serve the pork cutlets with the rosemary-thyme mixture spooned over the top. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Honey Soy Glazed Pork Cutlets

Honey Soy Glazed Pork Cutlets
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With a sticky honey soy glaze and tender pork cutlets, you’ll be coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place pork cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the pork.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pork, then sprinkle garlic powder and salt to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Chili Lime Pork Cutlets

Spicy Chili Lime Pork Cutlets
Add a burst of flavor to your dinner table with these Spicy Chili Lime Pork Cutlets. Marinated in a zesty mixture of chili flakes, lime juice, and herbs, these tender cutlets are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together chili flakes, lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Place the pork cutlets in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the marinade.
3. Let the cutlets marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Remove the cutlets from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake the cutlets for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Herb-Crusted Pork Cutlets with Mustard Sauce

Herb-Crusted Pork Cutlets with Mustard Sauce
Elevate your pork cutlets with a flavorful herb crust and tangy mustard sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork cutlets with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the pork cutlets.
5. Place the pork cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together whole-grain mustard and 1 tbsp water in a small bowl.
7. Serve the pork cutlets with the warm mustard sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Pork Cutlets with Fresh Herbs

Balsamic Glazed Pork Cutlets with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your pork dishes with this sweet and savory balsamic glaze, infused with the brightness of fresh herbs. This recipe yields tender and flavorful cutlets perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
5. Grill or pan-fry cutlets until cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side.
6. Brush glazed balsamic mixture over cutlets during the last minute of cooking.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh rosemary and thyme. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Mushroom Cream Sauce

Pork Cutlets with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent yet easy-to-make recipe. Tender pork cutlets are paired with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer mushroom mixture to a bowl and set aside. Wipe skillet clean.
5. Add pork cutlets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in mushroom mixture and cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve pork cutlets with mushroom cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Pepper Pork Cutlets with Garlic Aioli

Lemon Pepper Pork Cutlets with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful combination of tender pork cutlets and creamy garlic aioli. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with lemon pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. In a bowl, mix heavy cream and cooked garlic.
6. Serve pork cutlets with garlic aioli spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Apple Cider Reduction

Pork Cutlets with Apple Cider Reduction
Pork Cutlets with Apple Cider Reduction: A sweet and savory twist on classic pork cutlets, this recipe pairs perfectly seared pork chops with a rich apple cider reduction.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add apple cider to the same skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until reduced by half and syrupy.
5. Stir in honey until dissolved. Brush the pork cutlets with the apple cider reduction and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Smoky Paprika Pork Cutlets with Roasted Vegetables

Smoky Paprika Pork Cutlets with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoky paprika with the tenderness of pork cutlets, paired with a medley of roasted vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (1/2 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork cutlets.
4. Place the sweet potato, carrot, and red bell pepper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, cook the pork cutlets in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve the pork cutlets with the roasted vegetables.

Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.

Pork Cutlets with Creamy Dijon Sauce

Pork Cutlets with Creamy Dijon Sauce
This classic French-inspired dish combines tender pork cutlets with a rich and tangy creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in no time!

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add pork cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Remove pork from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve pork cutlets with creamy sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Garlic and White Wine Sauce

Pork Cutlets with Garlic and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pork cutlets with a rich and flavorful white wine sauce infused with garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add pork cutlets to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
5. Remove pork from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve pork cutlets with garlic-infused white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Fresh Sage and Brown Butter

Pork Cutlets with Fresh Sage and Brown Butter
Elevate your pork cutlets with the earthy flavor of fresh sage and the richness of brown butter. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the chopped sage and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
6. Return the pork cutlets to the skillet and spoon some of the brown butter mixture over each one.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pork reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Cherry Tomato and Basil Salsa

Pork Cutlets with Cherry Tomato and Basil Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing summer dish that combines the tender juiciness of pork cutlets with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the brightness of fresh basil.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets, about 1/2 inch thick
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper to serve (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook the pork for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cherry tomatoes, basil, and garlic in a bowl. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the pork cutlets with the cherry tomato and basil salsa spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Caramelized Onions and Thyme

Pork Cutlets with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Elevate your pork dinner game with this flavorful recipe featuring tender cutlets, sweet caramelized onions, and the earthy warmth of thyme.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook onions in the same skillet for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Add garlic, butter, and thyme to the skillet; stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve pork cutlets with caramelized onion mixture spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including searing time)

Pork Cutlets with Avocado Lime Crema

Pork Cutlets with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your pork cutlet game with a burst of fresh flavor from the creamy avocado lime crema. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the pork for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine the diced avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and honey in a blender or food processor.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the pork cutlets topped with a dollop of the avocado lime crema and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Pineapple Salsa

Pork Cutlets with Pineapple Salsa
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork cutlets, this recipe combines the juiciness of pork with the tangy freshness of pineapple.

Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork cutlets with the marinade mixture.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork cutlets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and jalapeño in a bowl.
7. Serve the pork cutlets with the Pineapple Salsa spooned over top.

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Pork Cutlets with Roasted Garlic and Herb Rub

Pork Cutlets with Roasted Garlic and Herb Rub
Elevate your pork cutlets with the deep flavor of roasted garlic and a blend of fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork cutlets (1/2 inch thick)
– 3 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together roasted garlic cloves, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork cutlets on a large plate or tray and brush the herb rub evenly onto both sides of each cutlet.
4. Place the coated cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a healthier meal with these 18 delicious pork cutlet recipes without breading! From classic flavors like garlic butter and lemon zest, to bold combinations like honey soy glaze and spicy chili lime, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, sweet, or tangy, these mouthwatering recipes will satisfy your cravings while keeping calories in check. With a range of herbs, spices, and sauces to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these tasty pork cutlet ideas.

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