Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

If you’re looking for a delicious recipe that brings the tastes of Italy right to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! My Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping is a dish that makes my heart sing. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also an explosion of flavor that everyone in your family will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this meal is sure to impress.

What makes this dish so special? Well, who can resist crispy chicken cutlets topped with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze? It’s comfort food at its finest, and it comes together with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into any schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love crispy chicken, and the vibrant toppings make it fun to eat!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken cutlets ahead of time and fry them just before serving for easy entertaining.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of fresh ingredients creates layers of flavor that are hard to resist.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or served alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this fantastic dish. Don’t worry; everything is quite easy to find!

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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have or prefer!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets instead of chicken for a leaner option.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes in the tomato topping for a spicy kick.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the chicken and serve the tomato-basil topping over grilled eggplant or zucchini slices.
• Change the cheese: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella works beautifully as well!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing each chicken breast between plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound them to an even thickness. This step is crucial because it ensures that each cutlet cooks evenly. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper for flavor.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Next, set up three bowls for breading your cutlets: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one filled with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken cutlet in flour first—this helps the egg stick—then dip it into the beaten egg, followed by a thorough coating in panko breadcrumbs. This triple-layer breading will give your cutlets that satisfying crunch we all love!

Step 3: Fry the Cutlets

Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet until it reaches about 325°F. Carefully place each breaded cutlet in the hot oil, frying them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step makes sure they stay crispy until serving!

Step 4: Make the Tomato Basil Topping

In the same skillet after removing excess oil, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your cherry tomatoes and let them cook until they start to blister—about 5 minutes should do it! Add minced garlic and kosher salt next; cooking for just another minute will enhance their flavors beautifully. Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze your pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Finally, mix this tomato mixture with sliced basil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl.

Step 5: Serve

Now comes the best part! Arrange those crispy chicken cutlets on a lovely serving plate. Top them generously with your fresh tomato basil mixture and pieces of creamy burrata. Drizzle balsamic glaze over everything for that finishing touch! Your Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping are now ready to be enjoyed!

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

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these pro tips will help you create the best chicken cutlets ever!

• Pound Chicken Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly, ensuring that your cutlets are juicy and tender throughout.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavors but also contribute to a beautiful presentation, making your dish more appealing.

• Control Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the breadcrumbs will burn before the chicken cooks through; if it’s too cold, the cutlets will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

• Burrata Variations: If burrata is hard to find, try using fresh mozzarella or even vegan cheese alternatives. Each option brings its own unique flavor while still being creamy and delicious.

• Embrace Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them separately in airtight containers. The cutlets can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness, while the topping stays fresh in the fridge for a quick meal.

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

Presenting your dish beautifully makes it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Sprigs: A few whole basil sprigs can add a pop of color and a burst of aroma when placed on top of the dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside for an extra zesty kick that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
• Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add a fresh, low-carb element to your meal while soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil balances out the richness of the burrata topping.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus sprinkled with salt and pepper provides a crunchy contrast that complements your flavorful chicken cutlets.

With these serving tips and side suggestions, you’re all set to impress at your next meal! Enjoy every bite of your Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only can you enjoy it fresh, but it also stores well for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken cutlets and topping to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in airtight containers for maximum freshness.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken cutlets individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The tomato basil topping can be stored in a separate airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the chicken cutlets in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• The tomato basil topping can be reheated gently on the stove over low heat or served cold, depending on your preference.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata for my Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping?

Absolutely! You can replace burrata with fresh mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping?

Some great side dishes include a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complement the flavors of the main dish.

Can I prepare the toppings ahead of time for my Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping?

Yes! You can prepare the tomato basil topping a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping! This recipe beautifully combines crispy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and creamy burrata that will impress everyone around your table. Enjoy every bite, share it with your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!