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. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta or toasted ciabatta. The vibrant flavors and creamy texture of mozzarella make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be on your table in just 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it with pasta, salad, or as a standalone meal.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike!
• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup thanks to cooking everything in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, it’s essential to gather your tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large ovenproof skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken perfectly and then transfer it directly to the oven if desired.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping herbs and garlic easier and safer.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your skillet.

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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
• 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

For Serving

• 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
– Sweet paprika

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if using.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken fillets and cook for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and place on a plate; cover with foil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped shallot; cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
2. Deglaze with white apple vinegar, simmer for another 2 minutes while scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Add salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; stir constantly for about a minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in chicken broth; stir to combine.
2. Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring to a boil then simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Nestle cooked chicken back into skillet among cherry tomatoes.
4. Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.

Step 6: Final Cooking Steps

Top everything with black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese:
– Let simmer for an additional five minutes until flavors meld together or bake in the oven for about ten minutes until golden.

Serve your delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella hot! Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Pasta

• Serve over your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. The rich sauce complements spaghetti or penne perfectly.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Spoon the chicken and sauce onto toasted ciabatta slices for a delightful appetizer. The bread absorbs the flavors beautifully.

With a Big Side Salad

• Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. A simple vinaigrette works wonders.

As a Wrap

• Use the chicken as a filling for wraps. Add some fresh greens and a drizzle of dressing for an easy lunch option.

Over Rice

• Serve it on a bed of rice to soak up all the savory juices. Jasmine or basmati rice adds an aromatic touch.

With Quinoa

• For a healthier option, serve it with quinoa. Its nutty flavor pairs well with the garlic and tomato sauce.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible.

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked chicken can become dry; aim for juicy and tender.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly. A pinch more salt or herbs can make a big difference.

• Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest before slicing. This helps retain juices and improves overall texture.

• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, try adding burrata or provolone for different textures and tastes.

• Make it Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance and reheat it gently when ready to serve. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Complement your Garlic Tomato Chicken with these delightful side dishes that add variety and balance to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition; steam until just tender to maintain crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances your plate’s flavor profile.

4. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light base that soaks up the sauce nicely.

5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort; consider mixing in garlic or herbs for added taste.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a fresh alternative to pasta; sauté lightly before serving.

7. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs pairs well with this dish.

8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This colorful salad adds protein, fiber, and freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the dish’s taste.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides of the chicken fillets generously.
• Skipping prep work: Failing to prepare ingredients beforehand can slow you down during cooking. Take time to chop garlic, shallots, and mozzarella before you start.
• Overcooking chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown on each side and remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Ignoring deglazing: Neglecting to deglaze the skillet can result in missed flavor from the browned bits. Use vinegar or broth to scrape up those tasty morsels.
• Not simmering enough: Rushing the simmering step can fail to meld flavors. Allow your sauce and chicken to simmer together—this step is crucial for a rich taste.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Choosing poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect the dish’s overall quality. Opt for high-quality cherry or crushed tomatoes for better flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and reducing cheese quantities while boosting vegetables in the dish.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or toasted ciabatta bread accompanied by a big side salad.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is great for meal prep; just store portions separately and reheat when ready.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner and can be customized easily by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the cheese. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together!