Name: Italian basil chicken cutlets Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Eggs: 2 large eggs; Flour: 1 cup all-purpose flour; Breadcrumbs: 1 cup Italian-style panko breadcrumbs; Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste; Oil: For frying; Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh Basil: 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons; Garlic: 2 cloves, minced; White Wine: 1/4 cup; Lemon Juice and Zest: From 1 lemon; Kosher Salt: To taste; Burrata: 1 ball of burrata cheese; Balsamic Glaze: For drizzling

Jump to Recipe

If you’re ready to fall in love with dinner all over again, these Italian basil chicken cutlets deserve a top spot on your table! Picture this: juicy, golden-crisp chicken layered under a bright, herby tomato basil topping and finished with creamy burrata and a drizzle of sweet-tangy balsamic glaze. Every bite is a delicious balance of crisp, creamy, fresh, and zesty. Perfect for a casual weeknight or a show-off dinner with friends, these Italian basil chicken cutlets always find a way to steal the spotlight in the most delightful way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Italian basil chicken cutlets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Italian basil chicken cutlets lies in its short list of fresh, quality ingredients. Each one brings its own punch—adding crunch, flavor, or color—so don’t skimp on the details for best results!

Chicken Breasts: Pounding them thin ensures even cooking and makes each bite incredibly tender.
Eggs: A whisked egg acts as glue so the breading clings beautifully to the chicken.
All-Purpose Flour: This first coat helps the egg stick and produces a crispier exterior.
Italian-Style Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds the crispiest, crunchiest crust spiked with Italian herbs.
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer for maximum flavor.
Neutral Oil (vegetable or canola): Shallow frying delivers that dreamy golden brown crust.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness balances the tangy and savory notes of the topping.
Fresh Basil: The signature herb that transforms simple chicken into Italian basil chicken cutlets perfection.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds bold, peppery flavor to the tomato topping.
Minced Garlic: Gives a lovely aromatic depth and light spiciness.
Dry White Wine: Cuts through the richness and layers in subtle acidity.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Provides a sunny burst of citrus to brighten the topping.
Kosher Salt: Just a pinch wakes up every other ingredient.
Burrata Cheese: Dreamy, creamy, and luxurious—it takes this dish over the top.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle for a sweet-tangy finish that pulls everything together.

How to Make Italian basil chicken cutlets

Step 1: Pound and Season the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, then grab your trusty meat mallet (or a heavy skillet) and gently pound the chicken to about a half-inch thickness. This not only guarantees even cooking but also ensures super-tender cutlets. Season both sides with kosher salt and a generous crack of black pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Get ready to channel your inner kitchen pro! Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with well-beaten eggs, and one with Italian-style panko breadcrumbs. Working one at a time, dredge each chicken piece in the flour (shake off excess), dip it into the egg (let the excess drip back), then press it into the panko breadcrumbs until fully and evenly coated for that signature crunch.

Step 3: Fry the Cutlets

Pour about a quarter inch of neutral oil into a large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet and heat to 325°F (medium heat). Once the oil shimmers, fry the cutlets in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any extra oil. Your kitchen will smell irresistible right about now!

Step 4: Make the Tomato Basil Topping

In a separate skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of kosher salt, then sauté until just softened—about 2 minutes. Splash in the white wine and let it bubble for another minute. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil, a squeeze and sprinkle of lemon juice and zest for maximum aroma and brightness.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

Arrange the crispy Italian basil chicken cutlets on a platter. Pile the tomato basil topping generously over each piece. Tear fresh burrata and nestle it right on top, letting it ooze and mingle with the tomatoes. Finally, finish with a lavish drizzle of balsamic glaze—right before serving, so the cutlets stay crisp. Dinner is ready to impress!

How to Serve Italian basil chicken cutlets

Garnishes

Give your Italian basil chicken cutlets a final flourish with a few small basil leaves, some extra black pepper, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. If you want extra color, try adding microgreens or even thinly sliced chives for a garden-fresh look.

Side Dishes

This dish loves the company of classic Italian sides. Think buttery garlic bread, a lightly dressed arugula salad, or a bowl of al dente pasta with olive oil and fresh herbs. For something lighter, serve your cutlets beside roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple lemony farro salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Your Italian basil chicken cutlets can absolutely go beyond the dinner plate! Serve them on a wooden board as a rustic family-style centerpiece, or slice them up for sliders with soft rolls and extra burrata. You can even tuck them into a crusty baguette for a knockout sandwich or chop and layer them onto a grain bowl for a fresh lunch spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian basil chicken cutlets will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the crispy cutlets separately from the tomato-basil topping and burrata to prevent sogginess—simply reassemble when ready to eat.

Freezing

The breaded, unfried chicken cutlets can be frozen on a baking sheet until firm, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fried cutlets also freeze well; let them cool completely, then freeze between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep that irresistible crunch, reheat chicken cutlets in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Microwave only if you’re in a hurry, but note the breading might soften. Add the tomato topping and burrata after reheating for best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! If you prefer richer flavor and a little more juiciness, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute in Italian basil chicken cutlets. Just be sure to pound them flat for even cooking.

What are Italian-style panko breadcrumbs?

Italian-style panko breadcrumbs are light, extra-crispy breadcrumbs that have added herbs like oregano and basil for more flavor. If you can’t find them, just mix regular panko with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

How can I make the dish gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free alternatives. There are many gluten-free panko brands, or you can use crushed rice crackers or cornflakes for crunch in your Italian basil chicken cutlets.

Is the burrata necessary or can I substitute it?

Burrata is wonderfully creamy, but if it’s not available, fresh mozzarella or even a dollop of ricotta cheese will work beautifully. Each one brings its own unique charm alongside the cutlets.

Can I make the tomato basil topping ahead of time?

The tomato basil topping is at its best when served fresh, but you can make it a few hours early and store it in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before spooning over your Italian basil chicken cutlets so the flavors really pop.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing quite like sharing a platter of Italian basil chicken cutlets with people you love. Whether you’re gathering family at the table or wowing friends over wine, this dish shines every time. Give it a try and let each delicious, crispy, oozy, herby bite remind you just how joyful and simple great cooking can be!

Italian basil chicken cutlets Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 13 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Italian basil chicken cutlets are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with a flavorful tomato basil topping. Serve with creamy burrata and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a truly indulgent meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Cutlets – Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken – Set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip the chicken in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
Fry the Cutlets – Fry the breaded chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Italian