Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping
Some recipes just make you happy the moment you start cooking them—and this is one of those for me. It’s simple, fresh, and feels like something you’d enjoy at a cozy little café in Italy.
I’m talking about golden, crispy chicken cutlets topped with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy burrata cheese that melts just enough to make every bite dreamy.
The idea for this dish came to me on a sunny afternoon when I was craving something light but still filling. I had fresh basil from my garden, a handful of ripe cherry tomatoes, and a ball of burrata in the fridge.
All I needed was some chicken, and the rest came together in under 30 minutes. The result? A plate of food that looks like it took hours but is so easy anyone can make it.
Why I Love This Recipe
I have to be honest—this is one of those recipes that makes me smile the whole time I’m cooking it. It’s simple, fresh, and full of flavors that just work together perfectly. Picture this: crispy golden chicken cutlets, a juicy tomato-basil topping, and creamy burrata cheese melting on top. Sounds fancy, right? But here’s the good news—it’s actually super easy to make.
I first made this on a warm summer evening when I wanted something light but still satisfying. It was inspired by a Caprese salad, but I wanted to add protein and make it a full meal. The result? A dish that feels like a little trip to Italy without leaving your kitchen.
The Beauty of Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets
This dish combines two of my favorite things—crispy chicken and fresh, simple toppings. The chicken cutlets are thin and cook quickly, which means dinner is ready fast. The basil and tomato topping is fresh, juicy, and slightly sweet, while the burrata adds that rich, creamy touch that makes everything taste like heaven.
What I love most is how light and refreshing it feels. It’s not heavy like fried chicken drenched in gravy—it’s crisp, fresh, and full of summer vibes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Too
- Quick to Make – You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Fresh Ingredients – No complicated sauces, just fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cheese.
- Looks Fancy but Easy – Perfect for date nights or impressing guests.
- Healthy but Satisfying – Crispy chicken without feeling greasy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
For the Chicken Cutlets
- 2 large chicken breasts (sliced into thin cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup flour (for coating)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned works best)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Topping
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Fresh basil leaves (torn into pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, but so good)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 ball of burrata cheese (torn into chunks)
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
The first thing I do is get my chicken ready. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally so you have thin cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Then, season both sides with salt and pepper.
Now it’s time for the breading station:
- Put flour in one bowl.
- Beat the eggs in another bowl.
- Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a third bowl.
Dip each cutlet in flour first, then egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently so the crumbs stick.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken Until Golden
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the inside is no longer pink and the coating is perfectly crisp. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3 – Make the Tomato and Basil Topping
While the chicken rests, let’s make the topping. In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, torn basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently so you don’t crush the tomatoes. The smell of fresh basil here is just amazing—it’s like summer in a bowl.
Step 4 – Assemble the Dish
Here’s the fun part! Place your crispy chicken cutlets on a serving plate. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over the top. Then, gently tear burrata cheese into pieces and place them on top. The warmth from the chicken will soften the burrata just enough to make it creamy and luscious.
Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy
You can serve this dish with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread to soak up the juices. I usually drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top before serving for that final Italian touch.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Don’t skip the Parmesan in the breadcrumbs—it adds so much flavor.
- Use fresh basil—dried basil won’t give you the same vibrant taste.
- Serve immediately—this dish is best enjoyed when the chicken is still warm and crispy.
- Swap burrata for mozzarella if you can’t find it.
Why This Dish Feels Like a Little Luxury
This recipe reminds me that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something special. It’s about using fresh, high-quality items and letting them shine. Every bite has that perfect mix—crispy, juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy burrata.
Whenever I make this, it feels like I’m treating myself, even though it’s so easy to put together. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance.
