Name: Savory Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn; 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil; 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional); 1 tsp olive oil (for tomatoes)

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping is a delightful dish that promises an explosion of flavors with every bite. This recipe combines crispy chicken cutlets topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese, making it an irresistible choice for a weeknight dinner. What’s more, it only takes 30 minutes from start to finish! Imagine serving this to your family or guests, with the vibrant colors of fresh basil and mouthwatering texture of melted cheese to entice their taste buds. The simplicity of this recipe, featuring common kitchen staples, makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking novice, or an experienced chef looking for a quick yet impressive meal.

This dish is not just appealing to your taste buds; it also presents a chance to explore the freshness of Italian cuisine. The combination of the crispy chicken, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the aromatic basil create a harmonious blend that is satisfying yet light. Moreover, this recipe is very adaptable, allowing you to make variations based on the ingredients you have on hand or personal preferences. Whether you prefer a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of extra herbs, you can easily customize your Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets to make them truly your own!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is simply irresistible.
Versatile: Great for meal prep and leftovers; adapts easily with different ingredients!
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and vitamins from the fresh ingredients.
Kid-Friendly: The gooey cheese and crispy chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delectable Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by clearing your countertop and ensuring you have ample workspace. To enhance efficiency, gather the following tools: a large cutting board, a sharp knife for halving your chicken breasts, a shallow dish for dredging the coated chicken, a frying pan for cooking, and a baking sheet for broiling the chicken. If you have a meat mallet or rolling pin, you might consider using it to ensure even thickness in your chicken cutlets. This step can help them cook uniformly, ensuring that each piece is perfectly crispy.

Once everything is in place, wash your hands and ensure your cookware is clean. Preheating your oven’s broiler at this point will also save you some time as you approach the cooking stages of the recipe. Additionally, have a spatula on hand to flip the chicken and transfer your cooked cutlets easily. With all these preparations, you’ll find the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
1 tsp olive oil (for tomatoes)

Instructions

Step 1: Season & Dredge

Start by preparing the chicken breasts to create perfectly crispy cutlets. Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to make them thinner for quicker cooking. In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning will elevate the flavors of your chicken. Dredge each cutlet in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring you coat both sides evenly. Gently shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully place the dredged chicken cutlets in the skillet. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and fully cooked through. It’s vital to check their internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). After cooking, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make for an easier cleanup later.

Step 3: Prepare Tomatoes

Enhance your dish with fresh flavors by preparing the tomatoes while the chicken is cooking. In a mixing bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with a teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial, as it breeds vibrant flavors that will complement the chicken perfectly. Once coated, set them aside for a moment.

Step 4: Top & Broil

Now it’s time to assemble your dish! On the same baking sheet with the cooked chicken, evenly distribute the cherry tomatoes over the cutlets. Follow this by topping each piece with fresh mozzarella. The cheese is what makes this dish particularly indulgent and satisfying. Broil everything in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the mozzarella is beautifully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it, as things can go from perfectly melted to overcooked very quickly!

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Finally, take the chicken out of the oven, and sprinkle the crispy cutlets with fresh basil for a contrasting flavor and a pop of color. If you choose, drizzle with balsamic glaze to enhance the dish further and add a touch of sweetness. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful fusion of crispy, cheesy, and fresh flavors right away!

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets or eggplant slices for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with Italian herbs like oregano or thyme for a twist on the classic flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken breast for uniform thickness.
Feel free to make your own breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating instead of flour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a healthy meal.
Pair with garlic bread or a side of pasta to make it more filling.

Tips

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier cutlets.
For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: Roughly 30g
Sodium: Depends on additional salt and glaze used

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before beginning the recipe for even cooking.

What can I substitute for mozzarella?

Provolone or gouda can serve as tasty alternatives to mozzarella if preferred.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping stands out as an excellent choice for a quick dinner without sacrificing flavor or quality. The combination of crispy chicken, fresh ingredients, and melted cheese creates a tasty meal everyone will love. With the versatility of this recipe, you can easily make it your own by experimenting with different toppings and flavors. We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with friends and family, and leave us your thoughts in the comments section! Your feedback is important, and we’d love to hear how you made this dish uniquely yours.