Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, then you’ll absolutely love these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines crispy chicken cutlets with a fresh topping of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy burrata. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will impress your loved ones without taking up too much of your time in the kitchen.

The best part about this recipe is how it brings everyone together around the table. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma make it not just a meal but an experience. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up even on the busiest days!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy burrata is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Fresh Flavors: The burst of tomatoes and basil adds a refreshing taste that brightens up the whole dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken cutlets in advance, making mealtime even easier!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with style and watch your guests’ eyes light up at the beautiful colors!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find! These will come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both comforting and delightful.

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

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a tasty vegetarian option!
• Change the cheese: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella works beautifully as well.
• Add some heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up.
• Mix in vegetables: Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.

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. This helps them pound evenly without tearing. Use a meat mallet to gently flatten them. Once they’re an even thickness, season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step ensures every bite is flavorful!

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Now it’s time to set up your breading station! Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken cutlet first in flour—this helps the egg stick—then dip into egg, letting any excess drip off before coating them in breadcrumbs. This creates that lovely crispy texture we crave!

Step 3: Fry the Cutlets

Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet until it reaches 325°F. Carefully place each breaded cutlet into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels. This keeps them crispy while removing any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Basil Topping

In that same skillet (don’t waste those flavors!), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start blistering—about 5 minutes is perfect! Then add minced garlic and kosher salt for an additional minute of cooking time. Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan; scrape up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom for extra flavor! Finally, combine this mixture with sliced basil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl.

Step 5: Serve

To serve, arrange those crispy chicken cutlets on a beautiful platter. Top generously with your vibrant tomato basil mixture. Tear pieces of burrata over everything—there’s something magical about that creamy goodness—and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that perfect touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! A stunning dish that brings joy to every meal. Enjoy your Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping!

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

Cooking can be a fun adventure, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your chicken cutlets to restaurant-quality!

• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly, resulting in perfectly tender and juicy cutlets.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.

• Control the Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature before frying. Cooking at 325°F ensures your cutlets become crispy without absorbing too much oil.

• Let the Cutlets Rest: After frying, allow the cutlets to rest on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps drain excess oil and keeps them crispy longer.

• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory flavors of the dish.

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

Presenting your dish beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here’s how to make it shine on your table!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top of the cutlets add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over the finished dish adds an aromatic note that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a comforting contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with rich burrata.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers roasted until tender add vibrant colors and earthy flavors to your meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs not only complements the chicken but also provides a nutritious boost to your dinner plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets topped with luscious tomato and burrata! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the chicken cutlets and toppings in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken cutlets to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cutlets in an airtight container.
• Store the tomato basil topping separately to keep the cutlets crispy.
• Refrigerate both for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cutlets cool completely.
• Wrap each cutlet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For the tomato basil mixture, freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag as well.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken cutlets overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Warm the tomato basil topping in a skillet over medium heat until heated through before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your cooking adventure!

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

Absolutely! While burrata adds a creamy texture, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or even ricotta if you prefer. Both will still provide delicious flavor!

How do I make Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat panko breadcrumbs. You can also bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying them for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare the chicken cutlets ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken cutlets in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This makes dinner time quick and easy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping as I was when I first made them! The combination of crispy chicken, bright tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy burrata creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly flavorful. Enjoy making this recipe for yourself or sharing it with loved ones—it’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!