Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato & Burrata Topping

Description

These Italian basil chicken cutlets are lightly breaded, pan-fried until golden, then topped with juicy sautéed tomatoes, fresh basil, and luscious burrata cheese. The warm tomatoes gently melt the burrata, creating a creamy, luxurious finish without heaviness. It’s simple, elegant, and packed with Mediterranean flavor—perfect for both weeknights and entertaining.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

Chicken Cutlets

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into cutlets

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or panko)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil, for frying

Tomato Basil Topping

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Red chili flakes (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves, torn

For Serving

• 2 balls burrata cheese

• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

• Balsamic glaze (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.

2. Bread the Cutlets
   Set up three bowls:

   • Flour

   • Beaten eggs

   • Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and oregano

   Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.

3. Pan-Fry
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Fry cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
   Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.

4. Make the Tomato Topping
   In the same pan, heat olive oil.
   Add garlic and sauté briefly.
   Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
   Cook 3–5 minutes until softened but still juicy.
   Stir in fresh basil and remove from heat.

5. Assemble
   Place chicken cutlets on a serving plate.
   Spoon warm tomato mixture on top.
   Tear burrata and place generously over the tomatoes.

6. Finish & Serve
   Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze.
   Serve immediately.

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Serving Suggestions

• Lemon arugula salad

• Roasted potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes

• Creamy polenta

• Crusty Italian bread

• Simple pasta with olive oil and herbs

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Q & A

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping once.

Q: What can I use instead of burrata?
A: Fresh mozzarella or ricotta works well, but burrata gives the creamiest result.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can fry the cutlets ahead, but add tomatoes and burrata just before serving.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Not at all—chili flakes are optional.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store chicken and tomato topping separately for up to 2 days. Add fresh burrata when reheating.