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. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout on any table. Serve it with pasta or toasted ciabatta and a big side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Bursting with the rich flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella.
• Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a filling meal.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal clean-up required as everything cooks in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To create this flavorful Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella dish, you’ll need some essential tools for efficient cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or ovenproof skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or ovenproof skillet: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken while allowing you to easily transition from stovetop to oven if desired.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of ingredients like shallots and garlic.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for all your chopping needs.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements lead to balanced flavors in your dish.

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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

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 the Toppings

• 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

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot; cook until fragrant for about 2 minutes.
2. Deglaze with white apple vinegar, simmering for an additional 2 minutes while scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Add salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; stir constantly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in chicken broth; stir well to combine.
2. Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed while chopping basil leaves.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

1. Nestle cooked chicken between cherry tomatoes in the skillet.
2. Add chopped basil and mozzarella cubes on top.
3. Sprinkle with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
4. Let simmer for another 5 minutes until all flavors meld together or bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden.

Serve your delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella hot! Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Serving Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can elevate your meal into something truly special. Pair it with complementary sides and garnishes to enhance the flavors and presentation.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Penne: Toss the pasta in olive oil and garlic for a delightful base that absorbs the sauce.
• Pesto Pasta: The fresh basil in pesto beautifully matches the dish’s flavor profile, making for a vibrant pairing.

With Bread

• Toasted Ciabatta: Serve warm ciabatta drizzled with olive oil for a crunchy contrast to the juicy chicken.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of this bread complements the dish perfectly.

With Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens dressed with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create an Italian classic that echoes the main dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Perfecting Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for an amazing result.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes will elevate flavors significantly compared to dried or canned options.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook until just done to keep it tender; use a meat thermometer for accuracy (165°F/75°C).
• Let Flavors Marinate: Allowing the chicken to rest in the sauce helps absorb more flavor before serving.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that pair well with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements rich flavors.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch without overpowering the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized makes for a nutritious and flavorful addition.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in broth adds another layer of flavor while being an easy-to-make side.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can cut through creamy textures while providing a delightful crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks can make simple mistakes when preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Here are a few common pitfalls and tips to avoid them.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to generously season both sides of the chicken fillets before cooking.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly tender chicken.

• Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: Rushing through preparation can cause delays and stress. Take time to chop, mince, and measure all ingredients before you start cooking.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness to your dish but can lose flavor if added too early. Stir in fresh basil at the end for maximum flavor impact.

• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of canned tomatoes affects the sauce’s taste. Choose high-quality cherry or crushed tomatoes for a richer, more flavorful sauce.

• Neglecting to Deglaze the Pan: Not deglazing the skillet after cooking chicken means missing out on rich flavors. Scrape up brown bits with vinegar to enhance your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella that may help clarify your cooking experience.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs well with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even lamb if you’re looking for a variation on flavors.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding sliced jalapeños into the sauce while it simmers.

How can I customize my Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or cheddar!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and assemble everything just before serving for a quick weeknight meal.

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella healthy?

With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, this dish is a great option that remains flavorful without compromising nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Try it today and let its comforting flavors shine in your kitchen!