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 dish. This mouthwatering recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The delightful combination of flavors and textures will impress your family and friends alike. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy cooks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it with pasta, bread, or a big side salad for a complete meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
• Family Approved: A comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and get prepared. Having everything in place will make the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet (ovenproof)
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet (ovenproof): Ideal for cooking on the stovetop and then transitioning directly into the oven if desired.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface and scraping up flavorful bits.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken fillets
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Sauce

• 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:
1. Mince the garlic.
2. Finely chop the shallot.
3. Cut mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken fillets on both sides with:
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Garlic powder
– Paprika

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

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 brown bits from the bottom.
– Stir in salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; cook while stirring for another minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
– Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust salt if needed.
– Meanwhile, chop fresh basil leaves.

Step 6: Final Assembly

Nestle cooked chicken between cherry tomatoes in skillet.
– Add basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.
– Sprinkle with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan. Simmer for 5 minutes or bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden.

Serve hot! Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella alongside pasta or toasted ciabatta for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Penne: Toss cooked pasta with olive oil and fresh herbs for a light accompaniment.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy fettuccine enhances the flavors of the chicken and adds richness to your plate.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Crunchy Ciabatta Slices: Serve the chicken on top of toasted ciabatta for a satisfying crunch that absorbs the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the dish perfectly, making each bite irresistible.

With a Big Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing and croutons contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Perfecting this dish can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some tips to make it shine.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality mozzarella can enhance the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce as it simmers, adding salt or pepper as needed to balance flavors.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Getting a nice sear on the chicken adds depth and complexity to the dish.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce helps infuse it with rich tomato and garlic notes.
• Experiment with Cheese: Mixing in different cheeses like provolone or fontina can create unique tastes and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pair your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella alongside these delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the saucy chicken beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that adds color and nutrients without overshadowing your main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and herbs offers protein and freshness.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs provides a neutral base that soaks up extra sauce from the chicken.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini tossed lightly in olive oil for a fresh touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella dish to new heights. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly – Many people forget to season the chicken fillets adequately. Make sure to coat both sides with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without losing moisture.
• Skipping the deglazing step – Failing to deglaze the skillet can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Remember to scrape up those tasty brown bits after cooking the chicken.
• Using low-quality tomatoes – The quality of your tomatoes directly impacts the sauce’s taste. Opt for good quality canned cherry tomatoes or fresh ones for a rich and vibrant sauce.
• Not letting flavors meld – Rushing through the simmering process can lead to a bland dish. Allow the sauce and chicken to simmer together so that all flavors combine beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella that might help you as you prepare this dish:

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for a different twist on flavors.

How can I customize Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or toasted ciabatta bread along with a fresh salad.

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and offers plenty of vitamins from the fresh tomatoes and basil.

How long does it take to make?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheese makes it a family favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or herbs! We encourage you to try this quick and easy recipe for your next dinner.