Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of cheese come together in this delightful Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella recipe. It’s an easy and quick meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta or crusty bread. The blend of savory garlic and juicy tomatoes makes this dish stand out, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or bread for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something delicious; most are pantry staples.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and can transition from stovetop to oven easily.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring you spend less time prepping.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

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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

For Toppings

• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) cherry tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
• 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

Start by getting all your prep done before you start cooking.
– Mince the garlic.
– Finely chop the shallot.
– Cut mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

• Season the chicken fillets on both sides with salt, black 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 skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken fillets and cook for about 5 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked.
• 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 and let simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the skillet using a wooden spoon.
• Add salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste. Stir continuously for 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
• Add canned cherry tomatoes to the skillet; bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed while chopping fresh basil leaves.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

• Nestle cooked chicken back into the sauce among cherry tomatoes.
• Top with chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes. Sprinkle black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan on top.
• Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes or bake in the oven for about 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve hot with your choice of sides! 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. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss cooked pasta in olive oil or garlic butter, then serve alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
• Pesto Pasta: A creamy pesto pasta brings vibrant flavors that complement the tomato sauce beautifully.

With Bread

• Toasted Ciabatta: Serve slices of toasted ciabatta for dipping into the rich tomato sauce.
• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the dish.

With Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes for a refreshing side that echoes the flavors of the main dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To ensure your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes boost flavor significantly compared to dried or canned options.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until just done to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; 165°F (75°C) is ideal.
• Customize Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper based on your taste preferences. You can also add herbs like oregano for extra flavor.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan add a delightful finish that enhances presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

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

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful addition.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing offers a healthy and filling option.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides vibrant color and complements the dish nicely.
4. Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with herbs can be an elegant base to soak up the sauce from the chicken.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini noodles offer a fun twist while keeping it healthy.
6. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest makes a quick and tasty side that pairs well with tangy tomato flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, be mindful of these common mistakes to enhance your cooking experience.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Always season your chicken fillets generously on both sides for optimal flavor.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature may burn the garlic. Keep the heat medium to allow the flavors to develop without burning.
• Bold timing: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Bold ingredient prep: Not prepping all ingredients before starting can slow you down and affect timing. Always have everything chopped and measured before cooking.
• Bold neglecting the sauce: Failing to deglaze the pan can result in a less flavorful sauce. Make sure to scrape up the brown bits while adding your liquid.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by ensuring that your broth and any other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like feta or gouda for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

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

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

The entire recipe takes about 35 minutes from prep to table—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!