Italian Basil Chicken

This crispy Italian basil chicken cutlet recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Italy. The juicy chicken provides the perfect foundation for the bright tomato basil topping and creamy burrata cheese that melts slightly when placed on the warm cutlets.

I first made these cutlets when trying to recreate a dish from our favorite Italian restaurant, and they've become our go-to impressive dinner for guests. The combination of warm chicken, fresh tomatoes, and cool burrata never fails to amaze everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Perfect for this recipe when pounded thin for even cooking and maximum crispiness
• Panko breadcrumbs: Create a significantly crunchier coating than regular breadcrumbs
• Fresh basil: Adds bright flavor and color to the topping
• Burrata cheese: Brings a luxurious creaminess that regular mozzarella cannot match
• Cherry tomatoes: Offer natural sweetness and burst with flavor when cooked just right
• White wine: Adds depth and acidity to the tomato mixture while deglazing the pan
• Balsamic glaze: Provides a sweet tangy finish that ties all the flavors together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Take each chicken breast and place between plastic wrap. Pound with a meat mallet until about 1/4 inch thick, creating an even thickness throughout. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The thin cutlets will cook quickly and evenly while remaining juicy inside.

Set Up Breading Station:

Arrange three shallow bowls in a row. Place flour in the first bowl, whisked eggs in the second bowl, and panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl. This organized setup will streamline the breading process and minimize mess. Ensure each station has enough room around it for placing the breaded cutlets.

Bread the Cutlets:

Work with one chicken piece at a time. First, dredge completely in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, allowing extra egg to drip back into the bowl. Finally, press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on both sides. Place breaded cutlets on a plate or baking sheet while you finish breading the others.

Fry to Perfection:

Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large cast-iron skillet to 325°F. Test with a breadcrumb to ensure it sizzles immediately but doesn't burn. Place cutlets in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Create Tomato Basil Topping:

In the same skillet, discard excess oil but leave about 2 tablespoons. Add olive oil and heat over medium. Add cherry tomatoes and cook about 5 minutes until they begin to blister and release their juices. Add minced garlic and salt, cooking for just one minute until fragrant but not brown. Pour in white wine, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Transfer mixture to a bowl and fold in the fresh basil strips, lemon juice, and zest.

Assemble and Serve:

Place crispy chicken cutlets on a serving platter. Spoon the warm tomato basil mixture generously over each cutlet. Tear burrata into pieces and arrange on top, where it will begin to melt slightly from the heat of the chicken and tomatoes. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a decorative pattern over the entire dish.

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The fresh basil is truly the star ingredient here. I grow basil in my kitchen windowsill year-round specifically for this recipe. There's something magical about the aroma that fills the kitchen when the basil hits the warm tomatoes that instantly transports me to summers in Italy.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the chicken cutlets up to a day in advance and store in the refrigerator between layers of parchment paper. When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crisp and heated through. This makes entertaining so much easier while still delivering that wonderful crispy texture.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The peppery arugula and bright lemon complement the rich chicken and creamy burrata. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted garlic parmesan orzo or a crusty Italian bread to soak up the tomato juices and melted burrata.

Ingredient Substitutions

If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella makes a good alternative, though you'll miss some of the creaminess. For a lighter version, bake the breaded cutlets at 425°F for 15-18 minutes instead of frying. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour can easily be substituted for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor or texture.

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This dish effortlessly combines crispy, creamy, and fresh, creating a truly unforgettable meal that will transport you to Italy in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I pound chicken breasts evenly?

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound the thickest part with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it’s an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots.

→ Can I bake the chicken cutlets instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly brush both sides with oil to help achieve a crispy texture similar to frying.

→ What type of breadcrumbs work best?

Italian-style panko breadcrumbs are ideal for extra crispiness. Regular panko or seasoned breadcrumbs also work well if you add a little Italian seasoning mix.

→ Can I substitute burrata with another cheese?

Yes, fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta cheese are great alternatives if burrata is unavailable. They offer similar creaminess and mild flavor.

→ Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is best for a vibrant, aromatic topping, but dried basil can be used in smaller amounts if necessary. Start with 1/3 the amount you would use for fresh.

→ What is the purpose of the balsamic glaze?

The balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish that balances the savory chicken, creamy burrata, and fresh tomato topping beautifully.