Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table, you’ve come to the right place! My Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The crispy chicken cutlets are topped with a vibrant mix of tomatoes and fresh basil, all crowned with creamy burrata. It’s a perfect blend of flavors in every bite!

This dish is wonderful for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or for family gatherings where you want to wow your loved ones. Trust me; this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it suitable for any skill level.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy chicken and tasty toppings. It’s a meal that brings everyone together.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and burrata creates a refreshing taste that feels like sunshine on a plate.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken cutlets in advance, saving time on busy days while still serving up something delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this amazing dish! You’ll find everything you need right here.

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! You can easily adapt it based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Change up the cheese: If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella works beautifully too.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or arugula for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato topping for an extra kick!

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. Using a meat mallet, pound them to an even thickness. This step ensures that your cutlets cook evenly and stay juicy. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Set up three bowls: one filled with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line makes breading super easy! Coat each chicken cutlet first in flour (shaking off any excess), then dip into the egg, followed by a generous coating of breadcrumbs. This creates that delightful crunchy exterior we all love.

Step 3: Fry the Cutlets

Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet until it reaches 325°F. Carefully add each breaded cutlet to the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Basil Topping

In the same skillet, add olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your cherry tomatoes and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they start blistering—this brings out their natural sweetness! Add minced garlic and kosher salt, cooking for another minute. Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan; this adds depth of flavor. In a bowl, mix this tomato goodness with fresh basil, lemon juice, and zest.

Step 5: Serve

Now comes the fun part! Arrange your crispy chicken cutlets on a serving plate. Top each one generously with the tomato basil mixture and pieces of creamy burrata. Finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that perfect touch.

And there you have it—your very own Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Cooking can be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets every time!

• Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly, resulting in tender and juicy cutlets.

• Use Fresh Basil: Opt for fresh basil rather than dried. The vibrant flavor of fresh basil elevates the dish, providing a fragrant aroma and a burst of freshness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.

• Control the Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at 325°F for frying. If the oil is too hot, the cutlets will burn before cooking through; if too cool, they’ll absorb excess oil and become soggy.

• Rest After Frying: Allow the cutlets to rest on paper towels after frying. This step absorbs any excess oil and keeps them crispy while you prepare the topping.

• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving. It adds a sweet-tart finish that contrasts perfectly with the creamy burrata and savory chicken.

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 make your meal shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding whole basil leaves on top not only enhances presentation but also boosts flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a pop of color and a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes roasted with garlic provide a hearty side that pairs well with the lightness of the chicken cutlets.
• Simple Arugula Salad: A salad of peppery arugula drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of burrata.
• Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini seasoned with herbs makes for a deliciously simple side that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs is an excellent choice that adds texture and freshness to your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container.
• Keep the tomato basil topping separate to maintain crispness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken cutlets to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each cutlet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For the best flavor, use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw cutlets in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place cutlets on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Rewarm the tomato basil topping in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While burrata brings a creamy texture, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or even goat cheese if you prefer.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your all-purpose flour is replaced with a suitable gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour.

Can I prepare the chicken cutlets in advance for the Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping?

Yes! You can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. This saves time and makes dinner even easier!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into these Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping! This dish not only bursts with flavor but also brings a delightful touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or serving it at a gathering, I’m sure it will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!