Mediterranean Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Goat Cheese Topping
This Mediterranean Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Goat Cheese Topping is a bright, flavorful dish that combines the crispy crunch of golden chicken with the freshness of ripe tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and aromatic basil. The contrast of textures and the balance between tangy, savory, and creamy flavors make it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying dinner. Inspired by Mediterranean simplicity and Italian home-style cooking, it’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Cutlets:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin to about ½ inch)
1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
½ cup flour
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil (for frying)
For the Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or diced
3 oz crumbled goat cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Set Up the Breading Station:
Place flour in one shallow dish.
In a second dish, beat the egg.
In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in flour (shake off excess), then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat evenly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
Fry the Cutlets:
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken cutlets for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Prepare the Topping:
In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, goat cheese, and fresh basil. Add a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
Assemble and Serve:
Place the crispy chicken cutlets on a serving plate. Spoon the tomato-goat cheese mixture over each cutlet. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips
Pound Evenly: Pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking and better browning.
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying—if it’s too cool, the cutlets will absorb excess oil and turn soggy.
Crispier Crust: After breading, let the cutlets rest for 5–10 minutes before frying; this helps the coating stick better.
Freshness Matters: Use ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor contrast.
Optional Touch: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish beautifully.
Variations
Caprese-Style:
Add slices of fresh mozzarella and drizzle with pesto for an Italian Caprese twist.
Herb Upgrade:
Mix chopped fresh herbs—such as parsley or oregano—into the breadcrumbs for extra aroma.
Baked Version:
To make it lighter, bake the breaded chicken cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
Mediterranean Veggie Mix:
Add roasted red peppers, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes to the topping for a richer Mediterranean flavor.
Creamy Spinach Goat Cheese Sauce:
Instead of the fresh topping, sauté spinach in olive oil and mix with melted goat cheese for a warm, creamy topping.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can fry the chicken cutlets ahead, cool, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness before topping.
Q: Can I substitute goat cheese?
Feta cheese or ricotta works well as alternatives, each offering a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes. Use almond flour for dredging and gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A simple arugula salad, roasted vegetables, or orzo tossed with olive oil and lemon pair beautifully.
Q: Can I air fry the cutlets?
Absolutely. Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 42g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 710mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Goat Cheese Topping is a deliciously fresh and satisfying way to enjoy classic Italian flavors with a Mediterranean flair. The crispy chicken provides a savory base for the creamy tang of goat cheese and the burst of juicy tomatoes and basil. Simple, elegant, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and vibrant—perfect for any night you want something special without too much effort.