Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh Italian flavors and comforting textures, then this recipe for Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping will quickly become one of your go-to meals. Juicy chicken cutlets coated in a golden, crispy crust form the perfect base for a vibrant topping made from blistered cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and luscious torn burrata cheese. The final drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a hint of sweetness and tang that elevates every bite. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that delivers big on taste and makes dinner feel special, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Only a handful of straightforward ingredients come together in this recipe to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential part, from the crunchy coating on the chicken to the fresh, bright tomato topping and creamy burrata finishing touch.

• Chicken breasts: Pounded thin for even cooking and tenderness.
• Eggs: Whisked to help the coating stick perfectly to the cutlets.
• All-purpose flour: Creates a light base layer helping the breadcrumbs adhere.
• Italian-style panko breadcrumbs: For that irresistibly crispy and flavorful crust.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance every element.
• Oil for shallow frying: Essential for achieving that golden finish on the cutlets.
• Cherry tomatoes: The sweet and juicy star of the topping.
• Fresh basil leaves: Chiffonade adds a fresh, aromatic punch.
• Olive oil: Used to gently blister the tomatoes and blend flavors.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to provide savory depth.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the tomato mixture perfectly.
• Dry white wine: Adds brightness and helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
• Lemon juice and zest: Inject a lively acidity and citrus aroma.
• Burrata cheese: Torn into pieces to add creamy, buttery richness atop the cutlets.
• Balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy drizzle that brings everything together beautifully.

How to Make Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Begin by pounding your chicken breasts until they are evenly thin; this helps them cook quickly and stay tender. Season each breast generously with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavor in the chicken base.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Create three separate bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with Italian-style panko breadcrumbs. This classic breading setup ensures a crispy and well-adhered crust that holds up perfectly when fried.

Step 3: Bread the Cutlets

Coat each chicken cutlet first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the eggs so they’re fully covered, and finally dredge them in the panko breadcrumbs. This triple-layer process makes sure every bite has that wonderful crunch everyone loves in cutlets.

Step 4: Fry the Cutlets

Heat oil in a skillet to around 325°F. Fry each cutlet for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown. This quick frying locks in the juiciness inside while creating a crisp outer crust that’s irresistible.

Step 5: Drain the Cutlets

Once cooked, transfer the cutlets to paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step keeps your cutlets light and crunchy instead of greasy, making the dish even more enjoyable.

Step 6: Make the Tomato and Basil Topping

In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook the cherry tomatoes until they blister and soften—about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and kosher salt, cooking another minute to release aromatic flavors.

Step 7: Deglaze and Flavor

Pour in dry white wine to deglaze the pan, stirring gently and allowing the liquid to reduce briefly. This adds a subtle acidity that brightens the topping beautifully.

Step 8: Add Fresh Basil and Lemon

Turn off the heat and stir in the chiffonade of fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, and zest. This fresh burst of herbs and citrus lifts the tomato mixture, making it vibrant and fragrant.

Step 9: Assemble the Topping on Cutlets

Top each crispy cutlet with a generous spoonful of the tomato and basil mixture, then scatter torn pieces of rich burrata cheese over the top. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Your cutlets with tomato and burrata topping are ready to be enjoyed immediately. Serving them warm ensures the cheeses stay creamy, and the flavors meld beautifully on your plate.

How to Serve Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping

Garnishes

To enhance presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling some freshly torn basil leaves on top just before serving. A light dusting of cracked black pepper also adds a nice contrast to the creaminess of the burrata. A few extra drops of balsamic glaze can brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think simple and fresh to complement, like a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or lightly sautéed garlic spinach. For something heartier, creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes provide a perfect balance to the tangy, fresh topping.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, try serving these cutlets family-style on a large platter with the tomato and burrata topping spread across them, letting guests help themselves. Another fun idea is plating each cutlet individually, layered with colorful arugula or microgreens underneath for a pop of color and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of the cutlets with tomato and burrata topping, keep the components separate for best results. Store the fried cutlets in an airtight container and place the tomato topping, along with burrata, in another. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and keeps flavors fresh.

Freezing

The chicken cutlets themselves freeze well if cooked and cooled properly. Place them in a single layer in a sealed freezer bag or container. However, avoid freezing the tomato and burrata topping as the texture of fresh tomatoes and cheese will change when thawed.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken cutlets in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back their crispiness. Warm the tomato topping gently on the stove just before serving, then add fresh torn burrata on top at the last minute to enjoy its creamy texture at its best.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of burrata?

Absolutely! While burrata adds that special creamy richness, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta can be a delicious substitute. Just keep in mind the texture and melting qualities might vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the tomato topping?

White wine adds a subtle tang and depth to the tomatoes but if you prefer to skip alcohol, you can substitute with chicken broth or even water mixed with a splash of lemon juice without sacrificing much flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken cutlets stay crispy after frying?

Letting the cutlets drain on paper towels immediately after frying and avoiding stacking them helps keep their crust crisp. Reheating in an oven or air fryer also restores crispness instead of microwaving.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour and Italian-style panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Many stores offer gluten-free flours and panko-style crumbs that work just as well for a crunchy coating.

What’s the best way to pound chicken breasts for cutlets?

Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them evenly until about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness throughout.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping that makes even a simple meal feel like a joyful occasion. The combination of crispy, flavorful chicken and a fresh, creamy topping is a winner every time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and bring a little Italian sunshine to your table with every bite!

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