This Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe features tender chicken, fresh basil, and a flavorful Italian twist. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights!
Who doesn’t love a dish that can make your kitchen smell divine? I often serve these with pasta or a simple salad for a delightful meal. It’s as easy as 1-2-3!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Cutlets: Choose boneless and skinless chicken for a quicker cooking time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work nicely too. Just remember that turkey may need a tad longer to cook.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a crispy coating.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes give a pop of color and sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes; just drain them well before using.
Basil: Fresh basil is key to the dish. If it’s hard to find, substitute with Italian seasoning or fresh parsley for a similar flavor, though basil offers that distinctive Italian taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Cutlets Crispy and Golden?
Achieving perfectly crispy chicken cutlets is all about the breading process. Here’s how:
- Ensure to season the flour well with salt and pepper. This base seasoning is crucial for flavor.
- After dredging in flour, shake off any excess before dipping into the egg. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s coated evenly. The more even the coating, the crispier they’ll be!
- Fry in hot oil (medium-high heat). Check for a sizzle when you add the cutlet; if it doesn’t sizzle, the oil isn’t hot enough, and your cutlet may absorb too much oil.
Following these steps will give you that satisfying crunch you want in your chicken cutlets! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll be feasting on these delicious chicken cutlets in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important so that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly once you transfer it to the oven.
2. Set Up Your Breading station:
Grab three shallow dishes to make the breading process easier. In the first dish, add the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This setup will help you coat the chicken perfectly.
3. Bread the Chicken Cutlets:
Take each chicken cutlet and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off before transferring to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the cutlet to ensure an even coating. Repeat with all the cutlets.
4. Cook the Chicken Cutlets:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place each breaded cutlet in the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
5. Assemble Your Dish:
Now, it’s time to make it pretty! Arrange the chicken cutlets on a serving platter. On top of each cutlet, place some fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese. It will melt slightly from the heat of the chicken, adding a lovely creaminess.
6. Add the Toppings:
Sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes over the cheese, and then generously sprinkle the freshly sliced basil leaves on top. This adds not only flavor but also a burst of color!
7. Finish with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the entire dish. This will add a delicious sweet and tangy finish that complements the other flavors wonderfully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken cutlets warm, and enjoy every mouthful of this delicious meal! Buon Appetito!
FAQ for Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast Cutlets?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook thoroughly compared to cutlets.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Cutlets?
Leftover chicken cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or try a homemade sweet glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or brown sugar until it thickens.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture will still be delicious!
