🍽️ Chicken with Braised Tomatoes and Burrata
Description:
This flavorful and elegant dish features juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts nestled in a bed of sweet braised cherry tomatoes, topped with rich and creamy burrata cheese and fresh basil. It’s a perfect fusion of protein, acidity, and creamy indulgence — ideal for a dinner party or a gourmet weeknight meal.
📝 Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 cups cherry tomatoes (as in the photo)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil, chopped or whole leaves for garnish
- 8 oz burrata cheese (2 small balls or 1 large)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
🍳 Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Make the Braised Tomato Sauce:
- In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil.
- Add onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add cherry or canned diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), balsamic vinegar, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- Let simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are soft and sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return chicken to the pan to warm in the sauce.
- Plate the chicken with a generous spoonful of the tomato mixture.
- Top with torn burrata cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh basil.
🧀 Tips:
- Burrata substitution: Use fresh mozzarella if burrata isn’t available.
- Tomato tip: For a sweeter flavor, use cherry or grape tomatoes.
- Make it a meal: Serve with crusty bread, over pasta, or with a simple arugula salad.
- Boost flavor: Deglaze pan with white wine before adding tomatoes for extra depth.
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 kcal |
| Protein | ~42 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10 g |
| Fat | ~24 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
| Sugar | ~6 g |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
✅ Health Benefits:
- High Protein: Great for muscle repair and satiety.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, good for heart health.
- Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats support cholesterol control.
- Burrata (moderate): Adds calcium and richness—use sparingly if watching fat intake.
❓Q&A:
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, just skip the burrata or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Yes, the tomato sauce and chicken can be made 1 day in advance. Add burrata just before serving.
Q: What wines pair well?
A: Try a light Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
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