This Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets Recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken cutlets are seasoned with fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of lemon, making them super tasty and simple to prepare.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with pasta or a salad for a delicious meal that feels special without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Cutlets: Boneless, skinless chicken cutlets are ideal for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work great too!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add extra flavor. You can substitute with plain breadcrumbs or panko for a crunchier texture. For gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enriches the flavor of the cutlets. Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative. You can also skip cheese for a dairy-free dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and juiciness. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes work too. Roasted peppers are another delicious substitution.
Fresh Basil: Essential for that fresh Italian taste! If you can’t find basil, you can use fresh parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The key to a crispy coating lies in the three-step breading process. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to season your flour with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Press the breadcrumbs onto the cutlets firmly but gently, ensuring the coating sticks well.
- Maintain medium heat while frying; too high will burn the coating before the chicken cooks through.
Flipping the cutlets carefully is important too—using tongs helps keep the coating intact. Patience is key, so avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature!
With these tips, you’ll have crispy, golden chicken cutlets that are perfectly cooked and full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Cutlets:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
For Topping:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then roughly 20 minutes cooking the cutlets until they’re deliciously golden brown. Enjoy your meal as soon as you’re finished!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will give the chicken a burst of flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations:
Set up your breading stations with three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl, beat the eggs in the second bowl, and in the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Bread the Chicken Cutlets:
Take each chicken cutlet and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing it gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
4. Fry the Cutlets:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Fry each breaded cutlet for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Add the Toppings:
Once all the cutlets are cooked, arrange them nicely on a serving plate. On top of each cutlet, place a spoonful of halved cherry tomatoes and tear pieces of fresh mozzarella or burrata over them.
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Finish off the dish by drizzling balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkling sliced or torn fresh basil leaves for that authentic Italian flair.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets are ready to be served! Enjoy them warm and relish the combination of flavors that make Italian cuisine so delightful!
Easy Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Cutlets?
Absolutely! If you have chicken breasts, simply slice them in half horizontally to create thin cutlets or pound them to an even thickness for quicker cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a quick alternative by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens, or use a drizzle of good quality balsamic vinegar. Honey or maple syrup can also be mixed with balsamic for a sweeter alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Chicken Cutlets?
Yes! You can freeze cooked chicken cutlets. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and seal in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for best texture.
