Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto and Burrata Topping – Fresh, Elegant, and Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto and Burrata Topping is a dish that feels effortlessly elegant while remaining approachable and comforting. It combines crispy, golden chicken cutlets with the vibrant freshness of basil pesto and the luxurious creaminess of burrata cheese. This recipe is perfect when you want something light yet indulgent, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. What I truly enjoy about this dish is the contrast of textures. The crisp exterior of the chicken pairs beautifully with the soft, creamy burrata, while the pesto adds a bright, herbaceous punch. When I tested this recipe, I served it with a simple arugula salad, and the balance was outstanding. It is a recipe that looks impressive on the plate but comes together with simple, familiar steps.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts provide a lean, tender base and are sliced into cutlets for quick, even cooking.

Fresh basil leaves form the aromatic backbone of the pesto, delivering vibrant flavor and color.

Burrata cheese adds luxurious creaminess and a mild, milky contrast to the crispy chicken.

All-purpose flour helps create the first layer of the breading and ensures even coating.

Eggs act as the binding element for the breading process.

Breadcrumbs create a crisp, golden crust on the chicken cutlets.

Parmesan cheese adds savory depth and enhances the breading with umami flavor.

Olive oil is used for pan-frying and adds rich, fruity notes.

Garlic adds bold aroma and depth to the pesto.

Pine nuts provide subtle nuttiness and texture in the pesto.

Salt enhances and balances all flavors throughout the dish.

Black pepper adds gentle warmth and seasoning.

Lemon zest brightens the overall flavor and complements the basil.

Fresh parsley adds color and freshness as a finishing touch.

Directions

Begin by preparing the pesto. In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed. Set aside.

Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create even cutlets. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Set up a breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese in a third bowl. Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken cutlets until golden brown and cooked through, turning once. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Arrange the cutlets on a serving platter. Spoon pesto generously over each piece and top with torn burrata. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of about 15 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken cutlets separately from pesto and burrata in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat cutlets in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness. Add pesto and burrata after reheating for best texture.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can grill the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version. I tested it with store-bought pesto when short on time, and it still delivered excellent flavor. For added depth, roasted cherry tomatoes can be spooned over the chicken alongside the burrata. You may also substitute mozzarella for burrata if needed, though burrata provides the most luxurious finish. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto and Burrata provide high-quality protein along with healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. While indulgent due to cheese and frying, the dish can be balanced by serving it with vegetables or a fresh salad.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Thin Cutlets Matter
Evenly sliced cutlets cook quickly and stay juicy.

Oil Temperature Control
Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the breading.

Pesto Balance
Taste and adjust salt and lemon for brightness.

Add Burrata Last
Top with burrata just before serving to preserve its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works well.

Is burrata necessary?

It adds creaminess, but fresh mozzarella can be substituted.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at high heat until golden and cooked through.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Arugula salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta work well.

Can I make the pesto ahead?

Yes, pesto can be made up to two days in advance.

How do I keep the cutlets crispy?

Avoid overcrowding the pan and serve immediately.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work but require slightly longer cooking.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the flavors are mild and approachable.

Can I add extra toppings?

Yes, prosciutto or roasted tomatoes are excellent additions.

Does lemon zest make a difference?

Yes, it brightens and enhances the basil flavor.

Conclusion

Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto and Burrata Topping is a refined yet comforting recipe that brings together crispy texture, fresh herbs, and creamy richness in perfect harmony. It is a versatile, impressive dish that fits effortlessly into both everyday meals and special occasions.

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