Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of cheese make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella a delightful dish for any occasion. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor and satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a rich, delicious sauce that you won’t be able to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients come together to create an impressive dish without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups & Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping herbs and vegetables quick and easy.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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 mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

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

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan on baking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large (ovenproof) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken fillets and cook for 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 5: Make the Sauce

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

Step 6: Add Tomatoes

Pour in chicken broth; 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 basil leaves.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Nestle chicken between cherry tomatoes in the skillet. Add chopped basil and mozzarella cubes on top. Sprinkle with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan. Let simmer for another 5 minutes until flavors meld and mozzarella slightly melts. Optionally bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden. Serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Whether you want a light meal or something more filling, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• You can serve the chicken over cooked pasta, like spaghetti or penne, to soak up the delicious sauce. Toss in some extra basil for added flavor.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Place the chicken on slices of toasted ciabatta bread for a hearty appetizer or main dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.

Side Salad

• A big side salad complements this dish perfectly. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pairing garlic tomato chicken with grilled vegetables adds a colorful and healthy element to your meal. Consider zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and sauce over steamed rice or quinoa for a comforting grain option. This combination absorbs the flavors beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

• Enjoy it alongside garlic bread for an indulgent touch. Dip the bread into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To achieve a restaurant-quality result at home, keep these tips in mind while preparing your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality mozzarella enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Cook the chicken on medium heat to ensure it browns without drying out.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like burrata or provolone for varied flavors if you want something different from mozzarella.
• Garnish Generously: Finish your dish with fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the dish beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and balances the meal’s flavors.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes provides a delightful contrast to savory chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing makes for a refreshing side.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce while adding texture to your plate.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs enhances your meal’s Mediterranean flair.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds healthy greens and vibrant color alongside rich mozzarella-based dishes.
8. Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The tangy sweetness of balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts pairs well with tomato sauce flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat the chicken fillets well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika before cooking.

• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for a golden brown on both sides.

• Not deglazing the pan – Failing to deglaze with vinegar can result in losing out on rich flavors. Take a moment to scrape up those tasty bits from the skillet after cooking your aromatics.

• Using low-quality tomatoes – Opting for poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect the sauce’s taste. Choose good quality cherry or crushed tomatoes for a fresher flavor.

• Rushing the simmering process – Skipping sufficient simmer time will prevent flavors from melding. Allow the tomato mixture to simmer for at least 5 minutes to enhance taste.

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 an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven – Preheat to 180°C/350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella that may help you during your cooking journey.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

You can pair this dish with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a big side salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How can I make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella healthier?

Consider using skinless chicken fillets and reducing the amount of butter used while maintaining flavor with spices and herbs.

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just cook them alongside the shallots and garlic.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the cheese. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love, so give it a try!