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Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Ricotta Sauce Recipe

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Ricotta Sauce Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 6 reviews

This Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets recipe features tender, pan-seared chicken cutlets smothered in a rich tomato and creamy ricotta sauce, infused with garlic, fresh basil, and a hint of lemon for a bright finish. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

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Chicken Cutlets

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter

Tomato and Ricotta Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and begins to foam. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  3. Make Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Add Ricotta: Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Combine: Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat thoroughly. Let them simmer together for an additional 3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
  6. Finish & Serve: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top of the chicken and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil to add brightness and freshness to the dish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps to create a better sear and caramelization.
  • The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your preferred spice level.
  • Use fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor.
  • You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different creamy texture.
  • Serve with crusty Italian bread or over pasta for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian chicken, basil chicken, ricotta sauce, tomato sauce, chicken cutlets, easy Italian dinner, quick chicken recipe

Find it online: https://maicook.com/italian-basil-chicken-cutlets-with-tomato-and-ricotta-sauce-recipe/