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 dish. With its vibrant flavors and comforting ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. In just about 30 minutes, you can impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta or toasted ciabatta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a hearty salad to suit any occasion.
• Easy Cleanup: Using one skillet means less mess and easy cleanup after cooking.
• Family-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

• Large ovenproof skillet: Perfect for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing for easy transfer to the oven if desired.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping you deglaze the pan effectively.

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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: Get Prepared

Start by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Mince the garlic.
2. Finely chop the shallot.
3. Cut mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you’re planning to bake later.
1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken fillets and cook for about five minutes on each side until fully cooked and browned.
3. Remove from skillet and place on a plate covered with foil.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot; cook for about two minutes until fragrant.
2. Deglaze the pan with dry white apple vinegar; let it simmer for two minutes while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Stir in salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; cook while stirring for one minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth to the skillet:
1. Stir to combine well.
2. Pour in canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then simmer for five minutes.
3. Adjust salt if necessary while chopping fresh basil leaves.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Nestle cooked chicken back into the sauce:
1. Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.
2. Sprinkle with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
3. Let it simmer for another five minutes until flavors meld together or bake in preheated oven for ten minutes until golden.

Serve hot and 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 can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer a light meal or something hearty, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• Pair it with your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or penne, to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

On Ciabatta

• Serve it on toasted ciabatta for a delightful sandwich option. Add some fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

Over Rice

• Place the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy rice. This adds a nice texture and absorbs the flavorful juices.

With Salad

• A big side salad complements this dish well. Choose greens like arugula or spinach, and toss them with a light vinaigrette.

As a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with the chicken and sauce. This makes for a fresh and low-carb option.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ripe tomatoes, and quality mozzarella will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center to maintain juiciness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; this ensures balanced flavors.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding other herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish immediately while it’s warm for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Serving side dishes alongside Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor to your meal.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   A healthy choice that pairs well with the richness of the chicken. Simply steam until tender.

3. Quinoa Salad
   Light yet filling, quinoa salad provides protein and fiber while adding a nutty flavor contrast.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make this salad an ideal companion that echoes flavors from the main dish.

5. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and complement the savory chicken beautifully.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These add sweetness and color to your plate while being nutritious and satisfying.

7. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous cooks quickly and can be flavored easily with herbs or broth for added taste.

8. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus gives a nice charred flavor that balances well with the rich tomato sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use enough salt, pepper, and spices for a tasty dish.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken can ruin the texture. Always monitor cooking times carefully; aim for 5 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked.
• Bold ingredient prep: Failing to prepare ingredients beforehand can slow down your cooking process. Chop garlic, shallots, and mozzarella in advance to keep things moving smoothly.
• Bold temperature control: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn ingredients. Keep your skillet at medium heat for even cooking and to prevent burning garlic and shallots.
• Bold sauce neglect: Skipping the simmering step can result in a less flavorful sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer as directed to enhance its taste before combining with chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delicious dish featuring seasoned chicken fillets cooked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

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

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I customize Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the type of cheese used for different flavors.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Pair this dish with pasta, toasted ciabatta bread, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. This comforting dish appeals to many tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or herbs. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!