Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto & Burrata
Mediterranean-Style Elegant Comfort Meal
🌿 Description
These Italian basil chicken cutlets are pan-seared in extra-virgin olive oil until golden, then finished with fragrant basil pesto and creamy burrata. It’s a classic Mediterranean dish that feels restaurant-quality yet comes together quickly at home. Fresh herbs, quality olive oil, and simple ingredients let the flavors shine—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken Cutlets
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally
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½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp dried oregano
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3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Basil Pesto
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2 cups fresh basil leaves
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¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
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1 clove garlic
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
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Salt, to taste
Topping
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1–2 balls fresh burrata cheese
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Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
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Fresh basil leaves
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken
Season flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
Dredge chicken cutlets lightly in flour, shaking off excess. -
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken cutlets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a serving plate. -
Make the Pesto
Blend basil, nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth.
Season with salt. -
Assemble
Spoon pesto over warm chicken cutlets.
Tear burrata and place on top.
Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil if desired. -
Serve Immediately
Allow burrata to soften slightly from the heat of the chicken.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Pair with roasted vegetables, lemony arugula salad, or whole-grain pasta
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Serve with crusty Mediterranean bread
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Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth
❓ Q & A
Q: Is this recipe Mediterranean diet–friendly?
A: Yes. It features lean protein, olive oil, fresh herbs, and moderate cheese—hallmarks of the Mediterranean diet.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping once.
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes, but choose one made with olive oil and minimal additives.
Q: What can I substitute for burrata?
A: Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or a dollop of Greek yogurt work well.
Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: Cook chicken and pesto ahead, then add burrata just before serving.
🌱 Health Benefits
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🍗 High in lean protein
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🫒 Rich in heart-healthy fats
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🌿 Packed with antioxidants from basil
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⚖️ Balanced and satisfying
