Get ready to fall in love with the Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Roasted Tomato & Burrata Recipe, a delightful combination of crunchy, juicy, and creamy textures bursting with fresh Italian flavors. This dish is all about crispy golden chicken cutlets layered with sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes and topped with luscious burrata cheese, fresh basil, and an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level—perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: the chicken cutlets provide a tender base, the herb-infused breadcrumbs add crunch and flavor, the roasted tomatoes bring sweetness and juiciness, and the burrata cheese finishes things off with a creamy, dreamy finish. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied: Butterflying ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: A light coating that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick beautifully.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue to hold the coating on the chicken.
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain): Golden and crunchy, these breadcrumbs form the crispy outer crust.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy kick to the breading mix.
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped: Infuses the coating with bright, fresh herbal notes.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: For subtle but essential garlicky warmth.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild spicy touch.
- Olive oil, for pan-frying: Provides the perfect medium for crisping the chicken without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes: Roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and juiciness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For roasting the tomatoes and keeping them tender and flavorful.
- 2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed: Roasts with the tomatoes adding subtle aromatic depth.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the roasted tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds gentle seasoning to the tomatoes.
- 8 oz burrata cheese, torn: Creamy, soft, and slightly tangy to contrast the crispy chicken.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds vibrant color and fresh herbal fragrance to every bite.
- Optional: balsamic glaze (non-alcoholic): A sweet, tangy drizzle that perfectly complements the entire dish.
How to Make Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Roasted Tomato & Burrata Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, lightly crushed garlic cloves, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until they become blistered and bursting with juice. This step transforms the tomatoes into a sweet and fragrant topping that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
While the tomatoes roast, set up your breading assembly line with three shallow bowls. Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and in the third bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan, fresh chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This combination ensures every bite of chicken is packed with flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Cutlets
Take each butterflied chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off before pressing it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. This triple-step coating sets the stage for a delectably crispy exterior that seals in the juicy chicken inside.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken Cutlets
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the pan and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop that beautiful golden-brown crispness and are fully cooked through. This technique guarantees that amazing crunch and tenderness you’re craving.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the chicken cutlets are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the roasted cherry tomatoes generously over each cutlet. Tear the burrata cheese and place it on top so it softens slightly from the residual heat, creating a rich and creamy layer. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if you like, drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added punch of sweet tanginess.
How to Serve Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Roasted Tomato & Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a must to add that pop of color and fresh flavor. If you want to elevate the presentation, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a glossy finish that complements the cheese and tomatoes beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, vibrant sides. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness while garlic roasted potatoes or creamy polenta can add satisfying heartiness. For a low-carb option, sautéed zucchini ribbons or garlic green beans keep things fresh and light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate the chicken cutlets individually with a small mound of roasted tomatoes and burrata artistically placed on top, garnished with basil. Alternatively, serve family-style on a large platter so guests can help themselves—it’s perfect for creating a warm, shared experience around the table. You can also use the cutlets as a base for an open-faced sandwich, layering them on toasted ciabatta with tomatoes and cheese for an irresistible lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the burrata separate if possible and add it fresh when ready to serve again so it maintains its creamy texture.
Freezing
While not ideal with the fresh burrata, you can freeze the cooked chicken cutlets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh burrata and roasted tomatoes.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy texture, reheat the chicken cutlets in a non-stick skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. Add the roasted tomatoes and fresh burrata only after reheating to keep their vibrant flavors and delicate textures intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of burrata?
Absolutely! Fresh mozzarella or even creamy ricotta can be great substitutes. Burrata has that unique creaminess, but mozzarella adds a lovely milky texture that pairs well with the tomatoes and chicken.
How do I make sure my chicken cutlets are crispy?
Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken and don’t overcrowd the pan. Also, the triple coating of flour, egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs is key to building that irresistible crust.
Can I prepare the roasted tomatoes in advance?
Yes, the roasted tomatoes can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat them gently before serving so they stay juicy and flavorful.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can swap regular flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.
What’s the best way to butterfly chicken breasts?
Lay the chicken breast flat on a cutting board, carefully slice horizontally nearly through the middle, then open it like a book. This method ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisps beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Roasted Tomato & Burrata Recipe enough—it’s an absolute winner that brings so much joy with each bite. The crunch, the juicy roasted tomatoes, the creamy burrata, and that fresh pop of basil come together in a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a whirl and watch it brighten your meal times!
Print
Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Roasted Tomato & Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese. This dish combines aromatic fresh basil, Parmesan-infused breadcrumbs, and juicy blistered tomatoes for a flavorful Italian-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Cutlets
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil, for pan-frying
For the Roasted Tomatoes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Serving
- 8 oz burrata cheese, torn
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: balsamic glaze (non-alcoholic)
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until blistered and juicy.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: place all-purpose flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in the third.
- Coat the Chicken Cutlets: Dredge each butterflied chicken breast first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture ensuring a good coverage for crispiness.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Serve with Roasted Tomatoes and Burrata: Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a serving platter. Spoon the roasted cherry tomatoes over the top of each cutlet. Tear the burrata cheese and scatter it over the warm chicken so it softens slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with optional balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for quicker and more even cooking.
- If Italian-style breadcrumbs are unavailable, plain breadcrumbs with added Italian seasoning can be used.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil will not provide the same aromatic punch.
- Adjust cooking times based on thickness of your chicken cutlets to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
