Chicken Milanese With Tomato, Mozzarella and Basil Salad

Step 1

Lightly season chicken cutlets all over with salt and pepper; let rest while you make the basil oil.

Step 2

In a blender or food processor, combine 2/3 cup oil, basil, garlic and salt to taste; purée until smooth.

Step 3

In a medium bowl, toss tomatoes and mozzarella with about half of the basil oil and salt to taste. Set aside.

Step 4

Place flour in a shallow bowl or plate. Pour eggs into another shallow dish; combine panko and Parmesan in a third dish.

Step 5

In a large skillet, melt butter and remaining 1/4 cup oil over medium heat. As it heats, dip a chicken cutlet in flour, shake off excess, then dip in eggs. Shake off excess, then dip both sides in panko mixture and transfer to a rimmed baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cutlets.

Step 6

When oil is hot, fry 2 cutlets at a time until bottoms are golden, about 3 minutes. Flip and fry until golden and crispy all over, about another 3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle immediately with salt.

Step 7

Taste tomato-mozzarella salad and add more salt and-or basil oil if needed. Serve cutlets topped with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of remaining basil oil and tomato-mozzarella salad.