Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets with Pesto & Burrata (Mediterranean)
📝 Description
These Italian Basil Chicken Cutlets are pan-seared until golden, then topped with fragrant basil pesto and creamy burrata. Inspired by Mediterranean Italian cuisine, the dish uses olive oil, fresh herbs, and simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal that’s light yet luxurious. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken
-
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
-
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp garlic powder
Basil Pesto
-
2 cups fresh basil leaves
-
2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
-
1 clove garlic
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
-
Salt, to taste
(Store-bought pesto may be used)
Topping
-
8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese
-
Cherry tomatoes (optional)
-
Balsamic glaze (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
-
Prepare pesto
Blend basil, nuts, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and salt until smooth. Set aside. -
Season chicken
Season cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. -
Cook chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cutlets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. -
Assemble
Transfer chicken to a serving plate. Spoon pesto over each cutlet. -
Top with burrata
Tear burrata and place on top. Add tomatoes and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. -
Serve
Finish with cracked pepper and fresh basil.
🫒 Mediterranean Nutrition Highlights
-
Lean protein
-
Healthy fats from olive oil & nuts
-
Fresh herbs & antioxidants
-
Naturally low-carb
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead?
A: Yes! Grill cutlets 3–4 minutes per side for smoky flavor.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free pesto and skip burrata.
Q: What sides pair best with this?
A: Roasted vegetables, arugula salad, or whole-grain pasta.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Cook chicken and pesto ahead; add burrata just before serving.
Q: Is burrata very heavy?
A: No—used in moderation, it adds creaminess without overpowering.
