Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of cheese come together in this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella recipe. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Serve it alongside pasta or toasted ciabatta for a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, with bread, or on its own as a hearty main dish.
• Family-Friendly: This comforting chicken dish appeals to kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools and prep your ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large ovenproof skillet: Ideal for both stovetop cooking and oven baking, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while developing rich flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken fillets
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 shallot (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup dry white apple vinegar (like Pinot Grigio)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) cherry tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)

For Topping

• 3 tbsp chopped basil leaves
• 2 mozzarella balls (chopped)
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for sprinkling)

How to Make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Get all the prep done before you start cooking: mince the garlic, finely chop the shallot, and cut the mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken fillets on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 200 °C/400 °F if using. Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken fillets and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and browned. Remove from skillet and place on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped shallot. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Deglaze with white apple vinegar; simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up any brown bits at the bottom of the skillet. Stir in salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute.

Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes. Adjust salt if needed while you chop the basil leaves.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Toppings

Nestle chicken back into the sauce between the cherry tomatoes. Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top. Sprinkle black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan over everything. Let simmer for another 5 minutes until flavors meld together or bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden.

Serve this delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella warm alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer a light side or a hearty accompaniment, there are numerous options to consider.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Penne: Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal.
• Pesto Pasta: Pair it with pesto-coated pasta for an aromatic twist.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Garlic Bread: Spread garlic butter on ciabatta and toast it until golden. Serve the chicken on top for a crunchy texture.
• Bruschetta Style: Top toasted ciabatta slices with chicken and fresh basil for an appetizer.

With a Big Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens drizzled with olive oil complements the richness of the chicken.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil will echo flavors from the dish itself.

As a Wrap

• Tortilla Wrap: Roll slices of chicken in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a quick lunch option.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap chicken and sauce for a lighter meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and high-quality tomatoes enhance overall flavor and aroma.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until just done to ensure tender and juicy fillets; use a meat thermometer if needed.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to personal preference.
• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest briefly before serving. This helps retain juices.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or gouda for different flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini into the sauce for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the savory chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumber and lemon suits this dish well.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned simply can enhance the meal’s overall appeal.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that’s easy to prepare and soaks up any extra sauce nicely.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs makes for a light yet satisfying addition.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a healthy twist, substitute traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil.
8. Ratatouille: A classic French vegetable medley that pairs beautifully with chicken and provides vibrant colors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance your experience when preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken fillets generously with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.

• Overcooking the chicken – Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Neglecting the sauce – A great sauce is key to this dish. Don’t rush the simmering step; allow the flavors to meld for at least five minutes for a richer taste.

• Using low-quality cheese – The type of mozzarella can affect the dish’s creaminess. Opt for fresh mozzarella for a superior melt and flavor.

• Forgetting fresh herbs – Fresh basil adds brightness to this dish. Always add it at the end or as a garnish to keep its flavor intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Good for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and reheat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken cooked in a cherry tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.

How long does it take to make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I customize Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or use different herbs like oregano or thyme for varied flavors.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs well with pasta, toasted ciabatta bread, or a big side salad for a complete meal.

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella healthy?

Yes! This dish features lean protein from chicken and is packed with tomatoes and herbs, making it both nutritious and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not just easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe allows you to customize flavors while enjoying comfort food at its best. Give it a try, and explore the endless possibilities!