Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a hug on a plate, then you must try this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. This dish combines tender chicken fillets with a vibrant cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for busy weeknights but also fancy enough for family gatherings or date nights at home.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up in just about 30 minutes. You can serve it over pasta, pair it with toasted ciabatta, or enjoy it alongside a refreshing salad. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick to make: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-packed dish: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this comforting meal with its cheesy goodness.
• Minimal cleanup: One skillet means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your food!
• Versatile options: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella! These are all common items that you might already have in your pantry or could easily pick up at the store.

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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is its flexibility! You can mix and match ingredients based on what you love or have available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option!
• Change up the cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your thing, feel free to use provolone or even some crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: For those who love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños.

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. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken fillets on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step is crucial because it infuses flavor into the chicken right from the start!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan to bake it later. Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken fillets and cook for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Removing them from the skillet keeps them juicy while we work on that delicious sauce!

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped shallot. Cook until fragrant—about two minutes does the trick! Deglazing with white apple vinegar helps lift all those tasty bits stuck to the pan. They pack immense flavor!

Step 5: Build Your Sauce

Stir in salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste. Cooking this mixture for just one minute allows all those flavors to blend beautifully before pouring in chicken broth and canned cherry tomatoes. Bring everything to a boil then let it simmer for five minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Nestle your chicken back into that bubbling sauce! Sprinkle chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes over everything. Top with black pepper, red pepper flakes for heat, and grated Parmesan. Let it simmer for another five minutes so all those lovely flavors meld together—or pop it in your oven for ten minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve hot with pasta or crusty bread, and watch everyone fall in love with this comforting dish! Enjoy your delightful Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Cooking can be a breeze with just a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having everything measured and chopped before you start cooking not only saves time but also ensures a smooth cooking process, reducing stress in the kitchen.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and quality mozzarella makes a world of difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients provide that vibrant taste that frozen or dried alternatives simply can’t match.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings—add more garlic or red pepper flakes for a kick, or reduce the salt if you’re watching your intake.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust. This adds depth of flavor and texture to your dish.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and tender by allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Serving Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this flavorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of whole basil leaves on top not only adds freshness but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
• Parmesan Shavings: Adding delicate shavings of Parmesan can elevate both the presentation and flavor, giving each bite an extra cheesy kick.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will add a pop of color and heat.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making it an excellent companion to your chicken.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken, balancing the meal beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can add color and nutrition, complementing the hearty chicken.
• Pasta: A side of al dente pasta tossed in olive oil or a light tomato sauce pairs wonderfully, creating a comforting Italian-inspired dinner experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your family or friends with this delightful meal. Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only a delightful dish but also perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for the week ahead or just want to enjoy leftovers, this recipe holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken and sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down fully before freezing.
• Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this scrumptious dish!

Can I make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer as noted above, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh salad. Choose your favorite sides to create a complete meal!

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella suitable for family dinners?

Yes! This comforting and flavorful chicken dish is great for family dinners, appealing to both adults and kids alike.

How can I customize the flavors in Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap in different herbs like oregano or thyme based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy and delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella at home. It’s a wonderful way to bring your family together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe will surely become a favorite! Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!