Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich cherry tomato sauce, fresh basil, and plenty of melted cheese. In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare this mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe stands out for its vibrant flavors and simplicity, making it a go-to choice for any weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, crusty bread, or a big side salad for a complete meal.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one skillet, this recipe minimizes the hassle of dishes after cooking.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large ovenproof skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken and then transitioning from stovetop to oven without needing another dish.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for deglazing the skillet while scraping up flavorful brown bits without scratching your cookware.

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 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: Prep 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 sweet paprika.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan to bake the dish later.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken fillets to the skillet:
– Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and browned.
– Once cooked, remove from the skillet and place on a plate; cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine. Add canned cherry tomatoes:
– Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about five minutes.
– Adjust seasoning as needed; meanwhile chop fresh basil leaves.

Step 7: Nestle Chicken & Top with Cheese

Nestle cooked chicken back into the sauce:
– Add chopped basil leaves and mozzarella cubes on top.
– Sprinkle with black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
– Let simmer for five more minutes or transfer to oven and bake for ten minutes until golden. Serve hot!

Enjoy your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is an incredibly versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

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

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Place the chicken and sauce on toasted ciabatta for a delightful open-faced sandwich. This adds a crunchy texture that’s irresistible.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple vinaigrette works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Basil

• Garnish each serving with additional fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s flavor.

With Grated Parmesan

• Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for added creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Making the perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is easy with a few straightforward tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and tomatoes enhance the flavor and overall quality of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure that chicken fillets are cooked until just done to keep them moist and tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce as it simmers; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Allow Flavors to Meld: Let the dish simmer for at least 5 minutes after adding mozzarella so all flavors can combine beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like burrata or feta for unique variations in taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

To complement your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, consider these delicious side dishes. Each option adds variety and balance to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for sopping up the savory tomato sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

2. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch while enhancing color on your plate.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds a nutritious twist.

4. Risotto
   Creamy risotto pairs beautifully, making your meal feel more indulgent while complementing the chicken’s flavors.

5. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken.

6. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with lemon zest makes for a light yet filling side that balances the richness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella to the next level. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides of your chicken fillets generously.
• Bold overcooking: Overcooking chicken can make it dry and tough. Ensure to monitor cooking times closely, removing the chicken when it’s just done.
• Bold skipping prep: Failing to prepare ingredients before cooking can slow you down. Chop garlic, shallots, and mozzarella ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.
• Bold ignoring simmering: Not allowing the sauce to simmer can result in muted flavors. Letting it simmer helps the ingredients meld beautifully together.
• Bold using low-quality tomatoes: Using poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for high-quality cherry or crushed tomatoes for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common queries about Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella:

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

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda based on your preference.

What can I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a fresh garden salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the chicken for a quicker meal later.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish allows room for customization; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or family dinners—give it a try!