tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dish that bursts with the vibrant flavors of Italy while remaining beautifully simple to prepare, these tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping are absolutely the answer. Juicy, tender chicken cutlets get a golden crisp crust and then are crowned with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The combination of textures and bright, fresh ingredients makes this dish a timeless crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress friends, these tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping bring sunshine and warmth to your table in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple, quality ingredients is all it takes to make these tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping shine. Each item adds its own magic—from the tender chicken breast to the aromatic basil, every element plays a key role in balancing flavor, texture, and color.

• Chicken breasts (2 large, boneless, skinless): Slice horizontally for perfect cutlets that cook evenly and stay juicy.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Creates a light dusting to help the egg and breadcrumbs stick for a crispy crust.
• Eggs (2, beaten): Binds the breading to the chicken, ensuring a golden coating.
• Italian-style breadcrumbs (3/4 cup): Adds crunch and Italian herbs for flavor that complements the topping.
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated): Adds umami depth and a salty kick to the breading mix.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings fragrant warmth throughout the crust.
• Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Infuses the cutlets with classic herbaceous notes.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons for topping): For frying the cutlets and gently marrying the topping ingredients.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy and sweet, they add vibrant color and freshness.
• Fresh mozzarella (6 oz, sliced or torn): Melts beautifully, giving creamy richness on top.
• Garlic clove (1, finely minced): Adds a delicate pungency to the topping.
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): Offers a fresh, peppery brightness that ties the dish together.
• Optional balsamic glaze: For a subtle, tangy drizzle that highlights the flavors.

How to Make tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets that cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry to ensure the breading sticks well. Give each side a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper to season the meat itself, which forms the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

This step is simple but critical: arrange three shallow bowls. One with flour for a dry base layer, a second with beaten eggs to help the crumbs adhere, and a third filled with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. This layered process guarantees that crispy, flavorful coating.

Step 3: Bread the Cutlets

Take each chicken cutlet and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the eggs, letting the extra drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every inch is evenly covered for that perfect, golden crust you’re aiming for.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Cutlets

In a large skillet, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your breaded cutlets and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn beautifully golden brown and are cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain that crisp texture.

Step 5: Add the Tomato and Mozzarella Topping

Transfer the cooked cutlets onto a baking sheet. Combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl, then spoon this fresh topping evenly on each cutlet. Top generously with slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella.

Step 6: Broil Until Melty

Set your oven to broil and place the baking sheet under the heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye so your mozzarella melts perfectly and becomes bubbly with just a touch of golden spots. This quick finishing step takes these tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping from great to unforgettable.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle torn fresh basil over the hot cutlets. A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze adds a beautiful glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

How to Serve tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping

Garnishes

Fresh torn basil leaves are essential for their aromatic lift and vibrant color. For a little extra zing, drizzle balsamic glaze lightly—this balances the richness with a sweet tang that’s sensational.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like al dente pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic, lightly roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad to add a refreshing crunch. These sides enhance without overpowering the star tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve the cutlets family-style on a large platter with scattered fresh basil and small bowls of balsamic glaze for dipping. For something more formal, plate each portion individually garnished with microgreens or edible flowers to impress your guests visually as well as gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the topping separate if possible to preserve the fresh tomato texture and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While the cutlets can be cooked and frozen without the topping, it’s best to add tomatoes and mozzarella fresh after thawing for optimal texture and flavor. Wrap the cooked cutlets tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add fresh tomato slices and mozzarella toward the end of reheating if you kept them separate. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness and prevent the cheese from turning rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

While fresh mozzarella offers the perfect melt and creaminess, you can experiment with burrata or provolone for a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Just keep in mind mozzarella’s mildness complements the bright tomatoes and basil best.

Are there alternatives to Italian-style breadcrumbs?

If you want to skip store-bought breadcrumbs, you can crush fresh bread to make your own or use panko for an even crunchier coating. Adding Parmesan and dried herbs helps replicate that classic Italian flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Proper slicing and pounding if needed help the chicken cook evenly and quickly, preventing dryness. Also, don’t overcook; a golden crust forms quickly, and removing the cutlets just after they’re cooked preserves juiciness.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this delicious recipe accessible for gluten-sensitive folks.

Is it okay to prepare the tomato topping in advance?

Since tomatoes release moisture, it’s best to keep the topping fresh and assemble right before broiling. However, chopping the tomatoes and mincing garlic ahead and storing separately can save prep time on busy days.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting about tlets with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping that makes you want to cook it again and again. The blend of crisp, juicy, cheesy, and fragrant tastes truly hits all the right notes to brighten your dinner table. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own classic—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from Italy in every bite.

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