Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, look no further than these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines crispy chicken with the freshness of basil and tomatoes, topped with creamy burrata. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet quick to prepare, or for family gatherings where you want to wow your loved ones.

The balance of flavors in this dish is simply delightful! The juicy chicken, vibrant tomato topping, and rich burrata create a symphony of taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy enough to make that even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, it’s perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy chicken, while adults will appreciate the fresh flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prep the cutlets earlier in the day and fry them just before serving for an easy meal.
• Versatile Topping: You can adjust the tomato topping to include your favorite veggies or herbs.
• Stunning Presentation: The colors of this dish make it as beautiful as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to make these delicious Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets!

For the Chicken Cutlets:

• 4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 3 eggs, whisked
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups Italian-style panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Oil for shallow frying

For the Tomato Basil Topping:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1½ cups fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin strips (chiffonade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ cup dry white apple vinegar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For Serving:

• 1 burrata, torn into pieces
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian option.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some pine nuts or sliced almonds on top for extra texture.
• Change the cheese: If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella works beautifully too!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the tomato topping for a little heat.

How to Make Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing each chicken breast between plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This step ensures that they cook evenly and stay juicy. Season each piece generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with whisked eggs, and a third filled with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken cutlet first in flour—this helps the egg stick—then dip it into the egg mixture followed by a generous coating of breadcrumbs. This three-step process gives our cutlets that irresistible crispy crust!

Step 3: Fry the Cutlets

In a cast-iron skillet, heat oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F. Carefully add each cutlet into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. This keeps them crisp while removing excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Basil Topping

Using the same skillet (to keep all those delicious flavors!), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to blister—about 5 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and salt for another minute before deglazing with white apple vinegar. Mix this well with sliced basil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl; this topping adds brightness to our dish.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange your crispy chicken cutlets on a serving plate. Top each one generously with your vibrant tomato basil mixture and pieces of creamy burrata. Drizzle balsamic glaze over everything for that final touch of elegance! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the most delicious Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets!

• Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures that your cutlets cook uniformly, resulting in juicy meat that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes when possible. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish, making it more appealing.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the cutlets may burn; if it’s too cool, they can become greasy. A steady 325°F is ideal for achieving that perfect golden crust.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many cutlets at once can lower the oil temperature dramatically. Cook them in batches to ensure each piece gets ample space and heat for that crispy exterior.

• Let Them Rest: After frying, let the chicken cutlets rest on paper towels for a few minutes. This allows excess oil to drain off, keeping your dish light and crisp.

How to Serve Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Presenting this dish beautifully can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Scatter a few whole basil leaves over the top just before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Lemon Wedges: Place lemon wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh juice over their cutlets, adding a zesty kick.
• Parmesan Shavings: For a gourmet finish, sprinkle some shaved parmesan cheese over the top—this adds richness and depth of flavor (ensure it fits any dietary restrictions).

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with garlic makes for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the flavors of your chicken cutlets.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil tossed in olive oil make a refreshing side that echoes the toppings on your chicken.
• Herbed Quinoa or Couscous: Fluffy grains tossed with herbs provide a light yet satisfying base that absorbs all those delicious juices from the chicken.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the burrata while adding freshness to your plate.

Enjoy serving this delightful dish at your next gathering or family dinner—the combination of flavors is sure to impress everyone!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the tomato basil topping separate to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
• Reheat the chicken cutlets in a skillet over low heat for best results.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the chicken cutlets, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cutlets can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For the tomato topping, consider freezing it separately in an airtight container for better flavor retention.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the cutlets thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm them in a skillet over medium heat or bake them in the oven at 375°F until heated through.
• If using previously frozen tomato basil topping, warm it gently on the stove before serving.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe!

Can I use another type of cheese instead of burrata?

Absolutely! If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can be wonderful alternatives that will still provide that creamy texture.

How do I make Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You’ll still enjoy that crispy texture!

What can I serve with Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping?

These chicken cutlets pair beautifully with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. You could also serve them over pasta for a heartier meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping as much as I do! This dish is not only bursting with flavors but also elevates any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s simple yet so special. Happy cooking!