Enjoy Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad, a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for light summer dining. This delightful recipe combines juicy chicken cutlets with a colorful salad that features sweet nectarines and ripe tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Fresh Ingredients: The combination of tomatoes and nectarines provides a burst of summer flavor that truly shines.
Healthy and Light: Chicken cutlets are a lean protein option, and paired with a salad, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the salad make this dish not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to making Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor and presentation of the dish.

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and a tender texture.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these basics elevate the natural flavors of the chicken.
Flour: A light dusting of flour helps achieve a crispy coating on the chicken cutlets.
Olive oil: Perfect for frying, olive oil adds a rich flavor and is a healthier fat option.
Roma tomatoes: Their firm texture and sweet flavor make them an excellent choice for salads.
Nectarines: Sweet and juicy, nectarines add a delicious contrast to the savory chicken.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness, red onion brings complexity to the salad.
Fresh basil: This aromatic herb enhances the salad with its fragrant, sweet notes.
Balsamic vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic adds a tangy sweetness that ties the dish together.

Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make changes based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Seasonal Fruits: Use peaches or plums instead of nectarines for a unique twist.
Greens Addition: Add arugula or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor in the salad.
Grilled Variation: Grill the chicken instead of frying for a smoky flavor and healthier option.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top of the salad for a creamy texture.

Fresh Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

How to Make Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This will give them a nice crust when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest.

Step 3: Make the Salad

In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced nectarines, and red onions. Toss gently to mix.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the salad with balsamic vinegar and a little olive oil. Add fresh basil and toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a bed of the tomato and nectarine salad. Enjoy your colorful and refreshing dish!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

Use a Meat Mallet: Flattening the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose ripe, seasonal produce for the best flavor in your salad.
Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices.
Keep it Cool: Serve the salad cold for a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

How to Serve Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

Garnishes

Consider garnishing your dish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a light quinoa salad or a side of grilled vegetables to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl for a family-style presentation, or plate it individually for a more elegant dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad separate to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken cutlets for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken cutlets, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for nectarines?

Peaches or apricots make excellent substitutes for nectarines, providing a similar sweetness and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for coating the chicken cutlets.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the chicken can be made ahead, the salad is best prepared fresh to maintain its crispness and vibrant flavors.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

You can add chickpeas or black beans to the salad for a boost of protein and fiber.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a summertime favorite. The combination of juicy chicken and refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, so why not give it a try? You might just discover your new go-to recipe!

Chicken Cutlets with Summery Tomato & Nectarine Salad

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken – Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This will give them a nice crust when cooked.
Cook the Chicken – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest.
Make the Salad – In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced nectarines, and red onions. Toss gently to mix.
Dress the Salad – Drizzle the salad with balsamic vinegar and a little olive oil. Add fresh basil and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve – Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a bed of the tomato and nectarine salad. Enjoy your colorful and refreshing dish!

Notes

Use a Meat Mallet: Flattening the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose ripe, seasonal produce for the best flavor in your salad.
Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices.
Keep it Cool: Serve the salad cold for a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.