🍽️ Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Tomato and Burrata Topping
📖 Description
Juicy, pan-seared chicken cutlets seasoned with Italian herbs form the perfect base for this fresh and vibrant dish. Topped with a juicy tomato-basil salad and creamy burrata, this meal brings together the essence of Italy in every bite. It’s simple yet elegant—perfect for a light dinner, summer lunch, or a no-fuss dinner party.
🍴 Servings
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken Cutlets:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ½ inch thick)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Tomato-Basil Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped or torn
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper to taste
Finishing Touch:
- 2 medium balls of burrata cheese (about 4 oz each), torn or halved
🧑🍳 Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
Season both sides of each cutlet with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cutlets and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and let rest. - Make the Tomato-Basil Topping:
In a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes. - Assemble:
Place chicken cutlets on a serving plate. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over each cutlet. Add torn burrata on top. - Serve:
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze if desired. Garnish with extra basil and cracked black pepper.
💡 Notes & Tips
- Pounding Chicken: Ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Burrata Substitution: Use fresh mozzarella if burrata isn’t available.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a kick.
- Meal Prep Tip: Chicken and tomato topping can be made ahead—just add burrata before serving.
🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Carbs | 7 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Note: May vary slightly based on cheese and oil quantity.
✅ Health Benefits
- High Protein: Great for muscle repair and satiety.
- Tomatoes & Basil: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and burrata provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Ideal for keto, paleo, and whole food diets.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes! Grilling adds a smoky flavor and works great in warm weather.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store chicken and tomato topping separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add fresh burrata just before serving.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Serve with arugula salad, roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or garlic bread (for non-low-carb eaters).
Q: Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil make a more intense, tangy variation.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as all ingredients are certified gluten-free.