Mediterranean Chicken & Burrata Bake with Roasted Tomatoes
Description
Mediterranean Chicken & Burrata Bake is a comforting yet fresh dish featuring tender herb-marinated chicken baked with juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, then finished with creamy burrata cheese. The roasted tomatoes create a natural sauce, while burrata adds luxurious richness. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests and pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice.
Flavor Profile: Savory, garlicky, herby, slightly tangy, creamy
Difficulty Level: Easy–Intermediate
Servings: 4
- Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time (optional): 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~50–60 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Roasted Tomato Base
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
1 small red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
For Finishing
2 balls burrata cheese
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Optional Add-ins
Kalamata olives
Spinach leaves
Sun-dried tomatoes
Roasted bell peppers
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Coat chicken evenly in the marinade.
Let rest 20–30 minutes (optional but recommended for better flavor).
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Base
Spread cherry tomatoes and sliced onion in the baking dish.
Add sliced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss gently to coat.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place seasoned chicken over the tomatoes.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).
Tomatoes should be blistered and juicy.
Step 5: Add Burrata
Remove dish from oven.
Tear burrata and place over hot chicken and tomatoes.
Return to oven for 3–5 minutes just until slightly softened (do not fully melt).
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Drizzle with olive oil.
Top with fresh basil.
Serve immediately with bread, pasta, or rice.
Serving Suggestions
With crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Over pasta or couscous
With roasted vegetables
Alongside Mediterranean salad
With garlic rice or quinoa
Pro Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Don’t overbake burrata — it should stay creamy.
Use high-quality olive oil for authentic flavor.
Roast tomatoes until slightly caramelized for deeper taste.
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is burrata?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese with a mozzarella shell and creamy center made from cream and soft curds. It melts into a rich sauce when warmed.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bake chicken and tomatoes ahead, then reheat and add burrata just before serving.
3. Can I use mozzarella instead?
Yes, but burrata provides a much creamier texture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I make it low-carb?
Yes — serve with roasted vegetables or salad instead of bread or pasta.
6. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are best, but drained canned cherry tomatoes can work.
- Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Calcium: 180 mg