Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of cheese come together beautifully in this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only rich in flavor but also quick to prepare, making it a go-to favorite for busy cooks. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta or toasted ciabatta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a delicious sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it with pasta, salad, or ciabatta for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness of this comforting dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe is both satisfying and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking easier. Make sure you gather your kitchen essentials before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken and then transferring directly to the oven.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet without scratching the surface.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of shallots, garlic, and basil.

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: 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, and paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan to bake it.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof 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 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; simmer for 2 minutes while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
– Add salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; stir constantly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Then add canned cherry tomatoes:
– Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
– Adjust seasoning if necessary; meanwhile chop fresh basil leaves.

Step 6: Assemble & Simmer

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the sauce:
– Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.
– Sprinkle with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
– Let simmer for another 5 minutes until flavors meld together or slide into your oven to bake for about 10 minutes until golden.

Serve your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella warm alongside pasta or toasted ciabatta! Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti: Tossed with olive oil and garlic for a simple, yet flavorful base.
• Penne Arrabbiata: Spicy tomato sauce complements the garlic and basil in the chicken.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy and rich, this adds a luxurious touch alongside the chicken.

On Toast

• Toasted Ciabatta: Serve the chicken on warm ciabatta slices for a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic Bread: A classic choice that brings out the garlic flavors in the dish.
• Bruschetta: Top toasted bread with fresh tomatoes and basil for extra freshness.

With Salads

• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo the flavors of the main dish.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To achieve an incredible Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both sides of the chicken well to maximize flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes can significantly elevate your dish’s taste.
• Cook on medium heat: Avoid high heat to prevent burning; this ensures your chicken cooks evenly.
• Deglaze properly: Scrape up all brown bits in the skillet to add depth to your sauce.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to sit before serving helps keep it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can create a balanced meal that satisfies everyone. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the dish perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing brings freshness.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch without overpowering flavors.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto offers a comforting texture that pairs well with tomato sauce.
6. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs serves as a great base for absorbing sauce flavors.
7. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly balances out the richness of the cheese and chicken.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the dish’s freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, even small missteps can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Ensure you cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and remains juicy.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance flavors throughout.
• Skipping the deglazing step: This important step adds depth to your sauce. Always use a liquid like apple vinegar or broth to scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet.
• Using low-quality cheese: The quality of mozzarella makes a difference. Opt for fresh mozzarella for creaminess and better melting.
• Ignoring ingredient prep time: Not prepping your ingredients beforehand can throw off your cooking timing. Always have everything ready before you start cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella:

What sides pair well with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish goes great with pasta, rice, or toasted ciabatta bread. A big side salad also complements it well.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda if you prefer different flavors.

How can I customize Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

What cooking method is best for this recipe?

The stovetop method is ideal as it allows for quick preparation while ensuring flavorful sauce development.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is perfect for meal prep due to its ease of storage and reheating.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella. It’s versatile enough to serve on weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings according to your taste!