Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Mozzarella (Print version)

Crisp Italian basil chicken cutlets topped with juicy tomatoes, melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and a light balsamic glaze.

# Ingredients:

For the chicken

01 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into 4 cutlets
02 - 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
05 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed

For the topping

07 - 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
09 - 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced thin or torn
10 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
11 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Stir the flour, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper together in a shallow dish.
02 - Pat the cutlets dry. Press each piece into the seasoned flour on both sides, then shake off the excess so the coating is thin.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and the center reaches 165°F. Transfer to a baking sheet.
04 - Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 teaspoon olive oil, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
05 - Preheat the broiler. Spoon the tomatoes over the cutlets and add mozzarella. Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
06 - Scatter fresh basil over the hot cutlets and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze if using. Serve immediately.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately after broiling while the mozzarella is soft.
02 - Fresh mozzarella should be patted dry before broiling to prevent excess moisture.
03 - Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F in the thickest part.