Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken, cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lots of cheese make this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella a standout dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it brings together rich flavors in just about 30 minutes. Whether served with pasta or toasted ciabatta alongside a refreshing salad, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy any palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, crusty bread, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it great for family dinners.
• Affordable Ingredients: Simple ingredients come together to create a gourmet experience without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet (ovenproof)
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet (ovenproof): This allows you to sear the chicken and then transfer it directly to the oven if desired.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for deglazing the pan while scraping up all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.

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 Toppings

• 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 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, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan to bake it later.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken fillets:
– Cook 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 another 2 minutes while scraping up brown bits from the skillet.
– Stir in salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; cook while stirring constantly for 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Add canned cherry tomatoes:
– Bring to a boil; reduce heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
– Adjust salt if needed. Meanwhile, chop fresh basil leaves.

Step 6: Nestle Chicken in Sauce

Nestle cooked chicken between cherry tomatoes in the skillet:
– Add basil and mozzarella cubes on top.
– Sprinkle with black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
– Let simmer for about 5 minutes or until flavors meld together and mozzarella slightly melts. Alternatively, slide the skillet into your 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

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delightful main dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your meal experience.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss cooked pasta in a light olive oil or garlic sauce to soak up the flavors of the chicken.
• Pesto Pasta: Serve alongside basil pesto pasta for a fresh, herby taste that complements the dish.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Ciabatta Slices: Top toasted ciabatta with the chicken and sauce for a delicious open-faced sandwich.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with buttery garlic bread to soak up the tasty tomato sauce.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber adds crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction pair perfectly with the flavors of the chicken.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these helpful tips for a perfect meal every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality mozzarella make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt and pepper levels while cooking for optimal flavor.
• Rest Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh oregano or thyme for an extra layer of flavor in your sauce.
• Monitor Cheese Melting: Keep an eye on the mozzarella; remove from heat just as it starts to melt for perfect gooeyness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Tomato Chicken enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and are perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offers both nutrition and color on your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich chicken dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs can add texture and nutritional value to your meal.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto can serve as a luxurious base for your chicken, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest makes for a light yet satisfying side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the quality of their Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the chicken properly. Ensure you generously season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for great flavor.
• Not preheating the pan: Failing to preheat your skillet can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding oil and butter. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for about 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Ignoring the sauce: Some cooks rush through making the sauce. Take the time to let it simmer and develop flavors after adding tomatoes and broth.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using subpar mozzarella can detract from your dish. Opt for fresh mozzarella for the best taste and texture.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Rushing to serve it immediately after cooking can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Letting it simmer for a few minutes helps integrate all the ingredients beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Freeze in suitable containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dishes at medium power, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors.

What sides go well with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor variations.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Give this quick recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for company!