This Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe features juicy chicken dipped in a flavorful basil mixture. It’s simple, quick, and sure to impress during dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love crispy chicken with a touch of Italian flair? I often pair it with pasta for a complete meal. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😄
Making it is a breeze! Just season, cook, and enjoy. I love how the fresh basil brightens the dish. Perfect for any night when you want to treat yourself to something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Cutlets: Boneless, skinless chicken is key for quick cooking. If you don’t have cutlets, you can slice chicken breasts into thinner pieces. This also works well with turkey cutlets if you prefer a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you are gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or grind up some oats or nuts for a crunchy coating.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella or burrata adds creaminess. If these aren’t available, try ricotta or even feta. Just remember that these cheeses will melt differently, but you’ll still get a delicious dish!
Basil: Fresh basil gives the dish its signature Italian flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch— use about a teaspoon, but fresh is always best for that bright taste.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken Cutlets?
Cooking chicken cutlets to perfection is all about technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry; this helps it brown nicely.
- Use a skillet that isn’t overcrowded! Fry in batches if needed to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high and the outside will burn before the inside is done.
- Check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Let the cutlets rest for a minute after cooking. This keeps them juicy!
With these tips, you’ll get crispy, golden cutlets every time. Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, julienned
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Optional: freshly ground black pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, making the total time approximately 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely later on. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each cutlet to season them to your taste.
2. Breading Station:
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, add the flour. In the second, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. In the third dish, pour in the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process easy and organized!
3. Dredge the Cutlets:
Take each chicken cutlet and first dredge it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, coating it well. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick. Set the breaded cutlets aside on a plate.
4. Fry the Cutlets:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to prevent it from becoming soggy. Place the breaded chicken cutlets into the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Assemble the Dish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Top each cutlet with generous pieces of torn mozzarella or burrata cheese, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes.
6. Finish It Off:
Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top and give a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. If you like, add some freshly ground black pepper for that final touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets are ready to be served! Enjoy them immediately while they’re warm, either on their own or paired with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. Buon Appetito!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Cutlets?
Absolutely! If you have chicken breasts, simply slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free chicken cutlets, substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are plenty of great options available that work well!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken cutlets the night before! Bread them and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before frying for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat to keep the breading crispy, or you can use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
