Meet your new go-to dinner showstopper: Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping. This dish strikes that perfect balance between comforting and refreshingly vibrant, thanks to golden pan-seared chicken, gently blistered cherry tomatoes, and the dreamy creaminess of burrata snuggled on top. The best moment is when you place cooked chicken on a serving platter, scatter on basil, and witness the cheese mingling with the warm tomatoes. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but special enough to wow your family or impress guests — and you might just find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be amazed at how a handful of simple, fresh ingredients transform this meal into something extraordinary. Each component adds its own magic to the final dish, from succulent chicken to lush basil and a pop of balsamic — don’t skip a step!
- Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless, and pound them to an even thickness for the juiciest, most consistent cutlets.
- Olive oil: The backbone of Italian flavor, it helps develop a golden crust and brings out the rich aroma in both the chicken and the tomato topping.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory depth directly to the chicken, infusing it right from the start.
- Italian seasoning: A classic blend that steers the dish into unmistakably Italian territory with every bite.
- Salt & pepper: The essential finishers — season each layer to let individual flavors shine.
- Cherry tomatoes: Choose sweet, ripe ones for the juiciest burst atop your chicken.
- Fresh garlic cloves: Sautéed with tomatoes for a fresh, aromatic punch that keeps things lively.
- Burrata: The star cheese, with its ultra-creamy center, practically melts into a luscious sauce on your platter.
- Fresh basil: Torn basil leaves add the prettiest finishing touch and a fragrance that screams summer in Italy.
- Balsamic glaze (optional): Drizzled to bring all the bold, tangy-sweet flavors together.
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional): A final drizzle for shine and that peppery, fruity kick.
How to Make Place cooked chicken on a serving platter
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by giving your chicken breasts plenty of love — pat them dry, pound to even thickness, and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Every bite should carry these flavors, ensuring juicy, perfectly seasoned cutlets every time. If you have a minute extra, let them sit in the seasoning while you prep the next steps for even deeper taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken and listen for that sizzle! Cook 4 to 5 minutes on each side, aiming for that irresistible golden-brown crust while ensuring the centers are cooked through. Your kitchen will already smell amazing at this point — resist the urge to sneak a bite!
Step 3: Sauté the Tomato Topping
While the chicken rests, add more olive oil to a separate pan over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic, letting it sizzle just 30 seconds until fragrant (trust me, don’t let it burn!). Add halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give them a few minutes to soften and burst just enough, keeping that vibrant color intact. This quick, fresh topping is about to elevate your entire dish!
Step 4: Place cooked chicken on a serving platter and Assemble
Moment of magic: place cooked chicken on a serving platter in a neat row or shingled for a gorgeous presentation. Spoon the warm garlicky tomato mixture over each cutlet, letting the juices run over the edges. Now, tear your burrata over the top — let the creamy center ooze onto the tomatoes and chicken. Scatter with torn fresh basil leaves and take a moment to appreciate this work of art!
Step 5: Add Final Touches & Serve
Give your masterpiece a finishing touch by drizzling balsamic glaze and a touch of extra virgin olive oil right over the top. That pop of acidity and sheen elevates all the flavors. Serve immediately — honestly, you’ll want everyone to see the cheese melt and tomatoes glisten as you place cooked chicken on a serving platter before digging in.
How to Serve Place cooked chicken on a serving platter
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the impact of a good garnish! Scatter extra basil leaves for the freshest aroma, and a bit more cracked black pepper if you’d like a kick. A generous drizzle of balsamic glaze not only looks gorgeous but melds everything together with its sweet tang. When you place cooked chicken on a serving platter, take a moment to let everyone enjoy the visual before you start serving.
Side Dishes
This dish loves company! Pair with crusty bread for mopping up juices, or serve with a twirl of spaghetti lightly dressed in olive oil and lemon for brightness. A simple green salad with arugula and a lemony vinaigrette brings out the light, summery side of the meal. As you place cooked chicken on a serving platter, keep sides on hand so everyone can create their perfect bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to up the wow-factor, layer your chicken on a bed of dressed arugula or baby spinach so the juices become the salad dressing. Or slice the finished chicken cutlets before placing on the platter, making it easy for guests to serve themselves at a casual dinner party. However you do it, just remember: place cooked chicken on a serving platter as the crowning moment, then build your creative presentation around it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the tomato topping and burrata separate if possible, so the chicken stays crisp and the cheese retains its texture. When you’re ready for round two, you can easily place cooked chicken on a serving platter and re-dress with fresh basil for best results.
Freezing
While the chicken itself freezes beautifully, the fresh tomato and burrata topping are best enjoyed right after cooking. If you’d like to freeze, wrap cooled chicken cutlets individually and keep for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly, then prepare a fresh tomato salad and burrata to bring that just-cooked magic back when you place cooked chicken on a serving platter for another meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat chicken cutlets gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat, or pop them in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving burrata and tomato mixture — instead, make them fresh or serve cold as a topping over the hot chicken, then place cooked chicken on a serving platter for a revitalized meal.
FAQs
Can I use mozzarella instead of burrata?
While burrata brings a uniquely creamy richness, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute! Tear it over the warm tomato-topped chicken so it softens a bit, and proceed as usual. The flavors still sing — just don’t skip the basil!
What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
Any ripe, sweet tomatoes will work. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, and cook just until they begin to soften. Grape tomatoes are a wonderful alternative as well, delivering that burst of juicy freshness.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky, summery vibe. Brush chicken with olive oil and seasonings, then grill over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Once done, place cooked chicken on a serving platter and proceed with the toppings for that irresistible combination.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the main recipe is naturally gluten-free! If serving alongside bread, opt for your favorite gluten-free loaf, or simply serve with gluten-free pasta or salad for a hearty, wholesome meal.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
The secret is pounding the chicken evenly and not overcooking it. Watch for that golden color, and let it rest briefly after coming off the heat before you place cooked chicken on a serving platter. That way, every slice is moist and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is pure delight on a plate, bringing together the best parts of classic Italian cooking in under an hour’s time. With juicy chicken, bright tomatoes, luscious burrata, and fragrant basil, every element plays its part — and when you place cooked chicken on a serving platter, it’s impossible not to feel a little bit proud. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make it a staple for sharing with the people you love!