Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Tender chicken smothered in a rich garlic tomato sauce with gooey mozzarella is the heart of this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it promises a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. In just about 30 minutes, you can create this flavorful and satisfying dinner that pairs beautifully with pasta, toasted ciabatta, or a crisp side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad to suit any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Minimal Cleanup: One-pan cooking means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet (ovenproof): Ideal for browning the chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for deglazing the skillet and scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom.
• Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken fillets accurately.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to prep your ingredients without cross-contamination.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken fillets
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 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 Garnishing

• 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

Start by doing all your prep work before cooking.
1. Mince the garlic.
2. Finely chop the shallot.
3. Cut the mozzarella into cubes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200 °C/400 °F if you plan to bake it later.
1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken fillets to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned.
3. Remove them from the skillet and place on a plate covered with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot; cook until fragrant for about 2 minutes.
2. Deglaze with white apple vinegar; let it simmer for another 2 minutes while stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape up brown bits from the bottom.
3. Stir in salt, black pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste; continue stirring for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and stir well to combine.
1. Add canned cherry tomatoes; bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, chop your basil leaves.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Nestle the chicken back into the skillet between cherry tomatoes.
1. Top with fresh basil, chopped mozzarella cubes, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until flavors meld together or slide into your oven to bake for approximately 10 minutes until golden.

Serve hot as part of a satisfying meal!

How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides and accompaniments. Whether you are looking for something light or hearty, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Penne – Toss cooked pasta with olive oil and fresh herbs for a simple yet delicious side.
• Creamy Alfredo – A rich Alfredo sauce complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

On Toasted Ciabatta

• Garlic Toast – Spread butter and minced garlic on ciabatta, then toast until golden for an aromatic base.
• Bruschetta Style – Top toasted ciabatta with chopped tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a fresh twist.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing mix of greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Caprese Salad – Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian side that echoes the main flavors.

How to Perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

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

• Choose Quality Chicken – Opt for fresh chicken fillets for better flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush Cooking – Allow the chicken to brown properly; this enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh basil and garlic elevate the dish’s aroma and taste compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Let it Rest – After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting companion to your chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil enhances flavors and provides crunch.
4. Quinoa Salad – Fluffy quinoa mixed with veggies offers a hearty yet light option that complements the main dish.
5. Risotto – Creamy risotto can soak up the tomato sauce beautifully while adding a luxurious touch to your meal.
6. Couscous with Herbs – Light couscous tossed with fresh herbs is an easy, quick side that adds flavor without overpowering the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you make the perfect Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always season both sides of your chicken fillets generously.

• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too many chicken fillets in the skillet at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook them in batches if necessary for even browning.

• Not letting the sauce simmer: Rushing through the sauce preparation may result in a less flavorful dish. Allow it to simmer so the flavors meld beautifully.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality mozzarella can affect the dish’s overall taste and texture. Opt for fresh mozzarella for a creamy and rich flavor.

• Neglecting prep work: Jumping into cooking without prepping your ingredients can lead to chaos. Always prep your garlic, shallots, and other ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef as per your preference, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

This dish pairs well with pasta, toasted bread, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the cheese.

How do I store leftovers of Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving!

Is there a vegetarian option available?

You could replace chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini and follow similar steps for a delicious vegetarian version!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions. This comforting dish offers room for customization—try adding different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!