Description
Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata is a flavorful and elegant dish featuring juicy, thinly pounded chicken breasts seared to a golden crisp. Topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and aromatic basil leaves, this recipe balances savory, creamy, and fresh elements perfectly. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a classy dinner party, it comes together in under 45 minutes with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Cutlets
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 125 g burrata cheese
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering.
- Season the chicken: Pat the thinly pounded chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optionally ½ teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Add chicken to the hot skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Keep chicken warm: Remove the cooked chicken cutlets from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate or serving dish.
- Prepare the toppings: While the chicken rests, halve or dice the cherry or medium tomatoes and tear the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the dish: Arrange the cooked chicken cutlets on a serving platter. Evenly distribute the tomatoes and torn basil leaves over the chicken, then top each breast with creamy burrata cheese.
- Finish with drizzle: Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the assembled chicken and optionally add balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet flavor accent.
- Serve immediately: Serve the chicken cutlets warm to enjoy the contrast of crispy chicken, fresh toppings, and creamy burrata at their best.
Notes
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
- If fresh burrata is not available, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute but will lack the creamy center.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang but can be omitted if you prefer a more savory dish.
- This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a light green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh due to the burrata topping.
