Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure they get a nice, golden sear when cooked. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets generously with salt and black pepper. This seasoning step is crucial to enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken and building a flavorful base for the dish.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken cutlets. Sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step locks in the flavor and creates a crispy exterior, which contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce later on.
Make the tomato sauce: In the same skillet, with the residual oil and butter, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. The garlic will release its aromatic oils, enhancing the depth of the sauce. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the sauce a more rounded flavor.
Add the ricotta: Stir in the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The ricotta adds a velvety texture to the sauce, while the Parmesan contributes a nutty, savory flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more ricotta or Parmesan to taste.
Combine the chicken with the sauce: Return the seared chicken cutlets to the skillet, ensuring they are fully coated in the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb some of the sauce. This step adds even more depth to the dish and helps the chicken stay moist and flavorful.
Finish and serve: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a bright, zesty finish. This lightens the richness of the sauce and adds a refreshing touch. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and fresh, herbal flavor. The basil adds a beautiful, aromatic finish that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
