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 weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is flavorful, filling, and quick to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that pairs beautifully with pasta or toasted ciabatta and a crisp side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a rich flavor profile.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash! Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread; it fits any meal style.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it an ideal family meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures efficient chopping of garlic and shallots.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring 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
• 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 Garnishing

• 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 the 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 your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if using. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken fillets:
– Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and browned.
– 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 for about 2 minutes.
– Deglaze with white apple vinegar, simmering for another 2 minutes while scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
– Stir in salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Add canned cherry tomatoes:
– Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 5 minutes. Adjust salt if needed.

Step 6: Nestle Chicken & Add Cheese

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the sauce:
– Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.
– Sprinkle black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan over everything. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until flavors meld.

Alternatively, slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake 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

Serving Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella offers a delightful experience bursting with flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish alongside complementary elements.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Penne: Toss cooked pasta with olive oil and fresh herbs, then serve the chicken on top for a hearty meal.
• Pesto Pasta: Combine the chicken with basil pesto pasta for a vibrant and aromatic dish.

With Bread

• Toasted Ciabatta: Serve the chicken with crusty toasted ciabatta, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Pair it with garlic bread for an extra punch of flavor that complements the garlic in the chicken.

With Salads

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

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To achieve culinary excellence with your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these tips to enhance flavor and presentation.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to season generously. This brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and enhances overall taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil and ripe tomatoes whenever possible. Fresh ingredients significantly elevate the dish’s quality.
• Proper Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. This helps achieve a beautiful browning and locks in juices.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest covered for a few minutes. This helps retain its moisture and ensures tenderness.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic and olive oil complements the dish beautifully.
2. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus seasoned lightly enhances both flavor and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with tomato-based sauces.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs, diced cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds freshness to your plate.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach drizzled with olive oil is a nutritious side that adds color to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella from good to great.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your chicken fillets well before cooking. This brings out the flavors and keeps the dish from being bland.
• Overcooking the chicken: Monitor the cooking time closely. Overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not letting the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld the flavors together. Don’t rush this step; it enhances the overall taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality tomatoes and mozzarella make a significant difference in flavor. Invest in good ingredients for better results.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Prepare all ingredients before you start cooking. Having everything ready allows for a smoother cooking process.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

What is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken fillets cooked in a rich cherry tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or fontina if you prefer different flavors.

Is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella healthy?

This dish can be part of a healthy diet, especially when served with vegetables or whole grains, providing lean protein and essential nutrients.

How can I customize the recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or toasted bread, alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only quick and easy but also versatile and full of flavor. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or changing up the cheese. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy!