Tender, golden chicken cutlets topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, creamy burrata, and a simple balsamic drizzle. This rustic Italian-inspired dinner is fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
For the Cherry Tomato Topping
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
For Serving
8 oz burrata cheese
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Fresh basil leaves
Freshly grated Parmesan, optional
Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound it to about ¼-inch thickness.
If the breasts are very large, slice them horizontally first to create thinner cutlets.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Set Up the Breading
Prepare three shallow bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour seasoned with a small pinch of salt and pepper.
Bowl 2: Whisked eggs.
Bowl 3: Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, shaking off excess.
Then dip into the beaten eggs.
Finally, coat thoroughly with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing the crumbs onto the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets without overcrowding the pan.
Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels.
Cook remaining cutlets if necessary.
- Make the Tomato-Basil Topping
In a bowl, combine:
Halved cherry tomatoes
Minced garlic
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh basil
Toss gently and let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes so the flavors can blend.
For a warmer topping, briefly sauté the tomatoes and garlic in a skillet for 2–3 minutes before adding the basil and balsamic vinegar.
- Assemble
Place the crispy chicken cutlets on a serving platter.
Spoon the cherry tomato and basil mixture generously over each cutlet.
Tear the burrata into pieces and place it over the warm chicken and tomatoes.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Finish with fresh basil, Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve
Serve immediately while the chicken is crisp and the burrata is creamy.
This pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or pasta.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Course: Dinner
Tips for the Best Chicken
Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken for a crispier coating.
Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
Add the burrata just before serving so it stays creamy.
For extra flavor, marinate the tomatoes for 10–15 minutes before assembling.
A thermometer is the easiest way to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Nut & Allergen Information
Contains dairy: Parmesan and burrata.
Contains eggs: The breading uses eggs.
Contains wheat/gluten: All-purpose flour and traditional breadcrumbs.
Tree nuts: No nuts are required in the recipe.
Peanuts: No peanuts are required.
Nut-free: Yes, when prepared with nut-free breadcrumbs and other ingredients.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free Parmesan and a dairy-free burrata-style cheese, although the flavor and texture will differ.
Always check packaged breadcrumbs, seasonings, cheeses, and balsamic glaze for allergen statements if cooking for someone with a severe allergy.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
Estimates will vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts and exact brands used.
Calories: ~620
Protein: ~55 g
Carbohydrates: ~30 g
Fat: ~32 g
Saturated Fat: ~11 g
Fiber: ~2 g
Sugar: ~7 g
Sodium: ~900 mg
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well, although they may need a little more cooking time.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes. Place breaded cutlets on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q: Can I prepare the tomato topping ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare it several hours ahead and refrigerate it. Bring it close to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Q: Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?
A: Yes. Fresh mozzarella is an excellent substitute, although burrata provides a creamier center.
Q: What can I serve with these chicken cutlets?
A: Try a green salad, roasted potatoes, zucchini, asparagus, pasta, garlic bread, or a simple Mediterranean-style grain salad.
Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help restore its crisp texture.
Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy?
A: Avoid covering the freshly cooked cutlets tightly. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.
Q: Is burrata the same as mozzarella?
A: Burrata is made from mozzarella-like cheese but has a soft, creamy filling inside, giving it a richer and creamier texture.
Q: Can I make this without balsamic glaze?
A: Yes. Simply use a little extra balsamic vinegar on the tomatoes or finish the chicken with fresh lemon juice instead.
Q: Is this recipe nut-free?
A: The recipe itself contains no nuts or peanuts. However, always check packaged ingredients for possible cross-contact warnings if preparing it for someone with a nut allergy.
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