This Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe is a tasty delight with juicy chicken breasts coated in fresh basil and seasonings. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how the fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that makes this simple dish feel special. Pair it with some pasta, and you’ve got dinner ready in no time. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Cutlets: Boneless, skinless chicken cutlets are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey cutlets instead as they work just as well!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs give extra flavor to the cutlets. If you don’t have these, plain breadcrumbs with added Italian herbs, like oregano or thyme, will do just fine.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella or burrata adds creaminess. If these aren’t available, you can substitute with shredded mozzarella, or even feta for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but any sliced tomatoes can work. You could also use sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken Cutlets?
Frying chicken cutlets to crispy perfection can be a challenge, but with a few tips, you can do it! The coating and the oil temperature play huge roles.
- Make sure to season the chicken well before breading. It adds flavor right from the inside.
- Use three separate stations for easy breading: flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures. Make sure to shake off excess flour and egg to avoid soggy breading.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil. A hot pan prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden-brown color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps maintain the oil temperature, so the cutlets fry rather than steam.
With these tips, you’ll have lovely, crispy chicken cutlets ready to enjoy! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have your delicious Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets:
Start by seasoning the chicken cutlets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This will ensure every bite is full of flavor.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Arrange three shallow dishes in a row. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second, beat the two large eggs. In the third dish, mix the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. This setup will help you coat the chicken easily!
3. Bread the Chicken Cutlets:
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the cutlet is fully covered. Press lightly so the coating sticks well.
4. Fry the Chicken Cutlets:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. When done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Arrange the cooked chicken cutlets on a serving platter. Top each cutlet with torn pieces of fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese so it starts to melt into the warm chicken.
6. Add the Toppings:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken cutlets for that fresh pop of flavor. Then sprinkle the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves on top for a lovely aromatic touch.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the assembled cutlets. This adds a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your vibrant and flavorful Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets immediately. Enjoy this delicious dish with your family or friends!
These cutlets are not only visually appealing but also bursting with fresh flavors. Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella or burrata gives a delicious creaminess, you can substitute with shredded mozzarella, provolone, or even feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to add some fiber. Additionally, you can bake the chicken cutlets in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes instead of frying, using a light spray of olive oil to achieve a crispy texture.
What Should I Serve With Chicken Cutlets?
These chicken cutlets pair wonderfully with a side of pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them over a bed of arugula for a fresh, light meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the cutlets crispy.
