Introduction: A Perfectly Balanced Meal for Any Occasion
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that brings together simple ingredients, each adding its own unique flavor and texture. When you combine tender chicken, rich braised tomatoes, and creamy burrata, you create a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata is a perfect example of how everyday ingredients can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing something special for guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel accomplished as a home cook, yet it doesn’t take hours in the kitchen. The flavors are balanced, with the savory depth of braised tomatoes, the juicy tenderness of chicken, and the creamy indulgence of burrata.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make this dish your own. From ingredient choices to cooking tips, we’ve got you covered. You’ll discover how easy it is to prepare, the nutritional benefits it offers, and how to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes. Let’s dive in and learn how to bring this incredible dish to life.
Why Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata Is a Must-Try Dish
A Flavorful Combination That Hits All the Right Notes
The magic of Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata lies in its ability to combine flavors in a way that feels sophisticated but isn’t complicated. You’ve got juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and creamy burrata—a combination that’s undeniably delicious.
- The Chicken: Whether you use chicken breasts or thighs, the chicken provides a satisfying protein base. The searing process locks in flavors, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- The Braised Tomatoes: When tomatoes are braised slowly, they become sweet, tender, and packed with flavor. Braising also enhances their natural acidity, which balances the richness of the chicken and burrata.
- The Burrata: Burrata is the star of this dish. Its creamy, soft interior melts beautifully over the hot chicken and tomatoes, adding a luxurious texture and flavor to the overall dish.
This recipe brings all these elements together in a way that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. You get the complexity of braised tomatoes, the savory depth of chicken, and the luxurious creaminess of burrata—all without any complicated techniques.
Perfect for Both Weeknight Dinners and Special Occasions
One of the best things about Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata is how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner after a busy day or preparing a dish for a special occasion, this recipe is adaptable to your needs. It’s simple enough to prepare on a weekday but elegant enough to impress guests.
The dish also requires minimal preparation—just some basic chopping, searing, and simmering. The slow cooking process does most of the work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax as the flavors develop in the pan.
Key Ingredients for Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts or thighs | 4 pieces | Bone-in or boneless, skinless |
| Tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened) | 4-5 medium | Fresh tomatoes or canned (if needed) |
| Burrata cheese | 8 oz | Fresh, preferably room temperature |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking the chicken and tomatoes |
| Fresh basil | 1/4 cup | Chopped, for garnish |
| Onion | 1 medium | Sliced |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Low-sodium, for braising |
| Red wine (optional) | 1/4 cup | Adds depth to the sauce |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Ingredient Breakdown:
- Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor. Bone-in chicken releases more flavor into the sauce as it cooks. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts will still work wonderfully.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes, particularly Roma or vine-ripened, will give you the best flavor for braising. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, high-quality canned tomatoes can serve as a substitute.
- Burrata: Burrata is the creamy cheese that makes this dish so special. It’s crucial to use fresh burrata that’s at room temperature so it can melt beautifully when served.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Seasoning the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. You want the chicken to be well-seasoned, as it will absorb the flavors of the braised tomatoes and broth as it cooks.
- Searing the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This will create a nice crust on the chicken and lock in the flavor.
Step 2: Braising the Tomatoes
- Sautéing the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onions in the leftover oil until softened and fragrant. This will form the base of your tomato sauce.
- Adding the Tomatoes: Add your tomatoes (either fresh or canned), breaking them up as they cook. Let them simmer for a few minutes to release their juices.
- Deglazing with Wine (Optional): If you’re using wine, pour it into the pan now to deglaze, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, skip this step and just add chicken broth.
- Simmering: Pour in the chicken broth, stir everything together, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes are softened and the sauce has thickened.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
- Simmering the Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, skin-side up. Let it simmer in the tomato sauce for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce as it braises.
Step 4: Finishing the Dish
- Adding Burrata: When the chicken is done cooking, remove the skillet from the heat and place a generous piece of burrata on top of each chicken breast. Let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese can melt over the chicken.
- Garnishing: Finish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of freshness and color. Drizzle some of the braised tomato sauce over the chicken and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Use Bone-In Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Bone-in chicken has a richer flavor and provides more depth to the sauce. The bones release gelatin as they cook, enriching the overall dish.
Be Generous with the Burrata
Burrata is the star of this dish, so don’t skimp on the amount. Make sure to use enough to allow the cheese to melt beautifully over the chicken for that creamy, indulgent texture.
Simmer Slowly for Rich Flavor
Slow simmering is key to this dish. Allow the tomatoes to break down and release their natural sweetness, and let the chicken cook gently so it becomes tender and flavorful.
How to Customize Your Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
If you want to boost the nutritional value and texture of the dish, feel free to add more vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach would all be excellent additions to the braised tomato sauce.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Experiment with Different Cheeses
While burrata is ideal for this dish, you can also experiment with different cheeses. Fresh mozzarella or ricotta would add a similar creaminess, though they won’t melt quite as luxuriously as burrata.
Nutritional Information for Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 400-500 kcal (depending on portion size and the chicken cut)
- Protein: 30g (from chicken)
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g (from tomatoes and onions)
- Fat: 25g (from chicken and burrata)
This dish offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables, making it a great option for a satisfying, nutritious meal.
FAQs About Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can braise the chicken and tomatoes ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the dish and top with fresh burrata before serving.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this dish. They cook faster and are leaner, though they might not be as tender or flavorful as chicken thighs. You can always adjust the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables to the braised tomato sauce, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. These will add texture, color, and extra nutrition to the dish.
Conclusion: A Recipe You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata is one of those dishes that feels like a treat, but is simple enough to make any day of the week. The combination of tender chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy burrata makes it a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a meal that will leave you craving more.
Now that you know how to make this delicious dish, why not try it for yourself? Let us know how it turns out, and feel free to share your variations or any helpful tips you discover along the way! Happy cooking!