Save to Pinterest The smell of sourdough toasting in the oven always pulls me into the kitchen. I first threw this together on a Tuesday evening when I had leftover chicken and a ball of burrata that needed using. Now it is the kind of dinner I make when I want something that feels fancy but takes zero effort. The way the warm cheese melts into the pesto is pure magic.
My sister came over unexpectedly last month and I panicked because the fridge looked bare. I threw these together and she demanded the recipe before she even finished her first bite. Since then we have started a little tradition of making them together whenever we need catch up time and good food.
What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔
Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.
Free. No spam. Just easy meals.
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread: Thick cut sourdough gives you that perfect crunch to cream ratio
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Brush this on both sides to get golden toast with a slight crisp
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast: About 200g will give you enough slices for all four toasts
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough warmth without overpowering
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: My secret for making simple chicken taste special
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use this for searing the chicken to perfection
- 4 tablespoons basil pesto: Homemade or store bought both work beautifully here
- 2 balls burrata cheese: The creamy center is what makes this recipe unforgettable
- Fresh basil leaves: Adds that pop of color and fresh aroma
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but lovely if you want a little heat
- Freshly ground black pepper: A final grind right before serving makes all the difference
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Instructions
- Toast the sourdough:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C and brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes flipping halfway until golden and crisp.
- Cook the chicken:
- Season the breast with salt pepper and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat then cook chicken 5 to 6 minutes per side until done. Let it rest 3 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Build your masterpiece:
- Spread pesto on each toast then layer chicken slices on top. Tear the burrata in half and place one half on each toast. Finish with basil red pepper flakes if using and fresh black pepper.
Save to Pinterest These toasts have become my go to when friends drop by for wine on the patio. There is something about the combination of warm bread savory chicken and that creamy cheese that makes people linger longer at the table.
Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇
Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.
Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap the basil pesto for sun dried tomato pesto when I want something deeper and richer. The sweetness from the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Italian rosé cuts through the richness perfectly. I have also served these alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Time Saving Tricks
On busy nights I use rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. It is already seasoned and cooked which cuts the prep time down to just 10 minutes. Nobody has ever guessed the shortcut.
- Toast extra bread slices and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Keep a ball of burrata in the fridge for impromptu gatherings
- Double the pesto portion and freeze the extra for next time
Save to Pinterest Hope these toasts become part of your own kitchen memory collection. They sure have earned a permanent spot in mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves cooking time. Simply warm the slices slightly before assembling or use at room temperature.
- → What's the best way to slice burrata?
Gently tear the burrata by hand rather than cutting with a knife. This preserves the creamy interior and creates a more rustic, appealing presentation.
- → Can I make these toasts ahead of time?
Prepare the components in advance—toast the bread, cook and slice the chicken—but assemble just before serving. This maintains the ideal texture contrast between crisp bread and creamy cheese.
- → What can I substitute for burrata?
Fresh mozzarella works well, though it's firmer than burrata. For a similar creaminess, try torn stracciatella or whipped ricotta with a drizzle of olive oil.
- → How do I store leftover assembled toasts?
These are best enjoyed immediately. If necessary, store components separately in airtight containers and reassemble quickly before serving to preserve the crispy texture.
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Ciabatta, baguette, or country loaf work well. Choose bread with enough structure to hold the toppings without becoming soggy when topped.
