Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella come together in this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe balances simplicity with delicious flavors. You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days or when you want to impress guests without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, fresh basil, and rich mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, with toasted ciabatta, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy chicken dishes, making this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like chicken and canned tomatoes keeps costs down without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting the cooking process, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients to ensure seamless cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large ovenproof skillet
• A sharp knife for chopping
• A cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• A wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Ovenproof skillet: This allows you to cook everything in one pan, making cleanup easier and enhancing the flavors through browning.
• Sharp knife: Ensures that chopping vegetables is quick and safe, allowing for precise cuts that enhance presentation.

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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: Prep 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: Cook the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 200 °C/400 °F if using. Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the chicken fillets.
– Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and browned on both sides.
– Remove from skillet and place on a plate. 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 any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
– Add salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste. Stir constantly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine with Tomatoes

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes. Adjust salt as needed.
Meanwhile, chop additional basil leaves.

Step 6: Nestle Chicken in Sauce

Nestle chicken back into the sauce between cherry tomatoes.
– Sprinkle with chopped basil and add mozzarella cubes on top.
– Finish by topping with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
– Let simmer for around 5 minutes or until all flavors meld together. Alternatively, slide into your preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.

Serve hot! Enjoy your flavorful 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 creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Linguine: Toss cooked pasta in the garlic tomato sauce for a hearty meal.
• Penne Arrabbiata: Pair with spicy penne for an added kick and great texture.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Garlic Bread: Spread a mixture of butter and garlic on ciabatta, toast it, and serve alongside the chicken for a delightful crunch.
• Bruschetta Style: Top toasted slices of ciabatta with the chicken mixture for an appetizer twist.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with olive oil vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella enhance the Italian flavors.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Add freshly torn basil leaves on top just before serving for brightness.
• Parsley Sprinkles: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes will enhance flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook chicken until just done to keep it juicy.
• Simmer Sauces Longer: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for deeper flavors.
• Opt for Quality Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for a creamy melt.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Complement your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella by serving it alongside these delightful side dishes.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and carrots offers a healthy crunch.
4. Risotto: Creamy risotto provides a rich base that balances the dish’s flavors beautifully.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is nutritious and adds vibrant color to your plate.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil complement the chicken well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella can be simple, but common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning the chicken is crucial for enhancing its flavor. Make sure to season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden color on both sides and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Not deglazing the skillet: After cooking the chicken, it’s important to deglaze the skillet. This step adds depth of flavor to your sauce by incorporating the browned bits left behind.

• Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes can greatly affect the dish. Opt for good quality canned cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes for a richer sauce.

• Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the dish to simmer helps all ingredients combine well. Don’t rush this step; let it cook for at least five minutes after adding the chicken back in.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella that may help you in your cooking journey.

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

This recipe takes approximately 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for dinner.

Can I customize Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh 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 even vegan cheese alternatives if desired.

Final Thoughts

Garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and allows room for customization based on available ingredients or personal preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich flavors and comforting appeal!