Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets bring the best of Italian flavors to your table with crispy golden chicken, warm blistered tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy burrata. The balsamic glaze drizzled on top ties everything together for a meal that feels special but is easy and quick to make. This is the kind of dish I reach for when I want something comforting yet impressive, and it never disappoints.

I first tried making these cutlets after craving a dish from our neighborhood trattoria. My version was so popular with family and friends that it quickly made its way into our regular rotation for both weeknights and celebrations.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: use chicken breasts pounded thin for even cooking and maximum juiciness select organic or natural cuts for best flavor
• Panko breadcrumbs: create an extra crunchy coating look for Japanese panko rather than regular breadcrumbs
• Fresh basil: brings brightness and aromatic flavor choose perky leaves with no dark spots for the most impact
• Burrata cheese: adds creamy richness that regular mozzarella cannot match if you can find local burrata it is worth the splurge
• Cherry tomatoes: offer sweetness and lively acidity select ripe glossy tomatoes with no splits or bruises
• White wine: gives depth and deglazes the pan opt for a dry white wine you enjoy drinking
• Balsamic glaze: drizzles over the top to add sweet tanginess use a thick syrupy balsamic reduction for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Place each chicken breast between pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about one quarter inch thick. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Thin cutlets ensure quick and even cooking plus that perfect crunchy bite.

Set Up Breading Station:

Line up three shallow bowls in a row with flour in the first eggs in the second and panko breadcrumbs in the third. This clear setup keeps the breading process tidy and helps you work efficiently. Make sure you have enough counter space at each station for moving the cutlets.

Bread the Cutlets:

Working with one piece of chicken at a time coat fully in flour shake off any excess then dip into the beaten eggs allowing extra to drip away before pressing into the panko breadcrumbs. Cover both sides very well so each bite will be evenly crisp. Arrange the breaded cutlets on a sheet pan as you go.

Fry to Perfection:

Heat about one quarter inch of neutral oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles briskly but does not brown too fast. Fry the cutlets in batches without overcrowding. Cook each side about two to three minutes until deep golden brown and internal temperature is one hundred sixty five degrees. Drain on a paper towel lined plate once cooked.

Create Tomato Basil Topping:

Remove all but two tablespoons oil from the skillet and add olive oil if needed. Once hot add the cherry tomatoes and stir often for about five minutes until they are blistered and starting to burst. Add minced garlic and sea salt and cook just one minute until fragrant. Pour in white wine and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon to add flavor then transfer to a bowl. Stir in sliced basil fresh lemon juice and a little lemon zest for a bright finish.

Assemble and Serve:

Arrange chicken cutlets on a large serving platter. Spoon warm tomato basil mixture over each cutlet. Tear burrata into generous pieces and nestle them onto the chicken so it melts a little. Finish with a decorative drizzle of balsamic glaze over the dish. Serve immediately for best flavors and ultra crispy texture.

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Fresh basil is my favorite ingredient here I always use leaves I have just snipped from my kitchen garden and nothing beats the sweet aroma that fills the room as soon as it hits the warm pan with tomatoes. My family loves gathering in the kitchen when the basil comes out and it always feels like a mini celebration even on a regular weeknight.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can bread the chicken cutlets a day ahead and store separated by parchment in the fridge. When ready to serve simply reheat them in a three hundred fifty degree oven for about seven minutes to get that fresh crunch back. I rely on this trick when hosting so I can focus on guests but still serve something crisp and delightful.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs like a dream with a peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For extra comfort serve alongside herbed orzo or slices of rustic Italian bread. I love using the bread to scoop up any extra tomato juices and melting burrata on the plate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find burrata use the freshest mozzarella you can source or even a dollop of whole milk ricotta. For a lighter meal bake the breaded cutlets instead of frying at four hundred twenty five degrees for about fifteen to eighteen minutes. Gluten free panko and flour both work here with no compromise in flavor or crunch.

This dish always feels special no matter when I make it and the aroma alone never fails to bring everyone running to the table.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I pound chicken breasts evenly?

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until the thickness is uniform. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy.

→ Can the chicken cutlets be baked instead of fried?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Lightly brush both sides with oil to maintain a crispy texture similar to frying.

→ What breadcrumbs work best for coating?

Italian-style panko breadcrumbs are ideal for extra crunch. Regular panko or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs also work well to enhance flavor and texture.

→ Is there a substitute for burrata cheese?

Fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used if burrata is unavailable. They provide a creamy texture but are milder in richness compared to burrata.

→ Can dried basil be used in place of fresh basil?

Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant aroma and flavor, but dried basil can be used in smaller amounts—about one-third of the fresh quantity—to maintain balance in the topping.

→ What role does balsamic glaze play in this dish?

The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, balancing the savory chicken, creamy burrata, and bright tomato basil topping to create a harmonious flavor profile.