As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting aroma of garlic and tomatoes danced through the air, instantly transporting me to a quaint Italian trattoria. My latest creation, Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella, highlights tender chicken fillets enveloped in a vibrant cherry tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and fragrant basil. What makes this dish a true winner is its quick and easy preparation, taking just 30 minutes to put together—a perfect solution for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a family-friendly delight that both kids and adults will be clamoring for! Are you ready to dive into this comforting recipe that promises to bring everyone around the dinner table? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Garlic Tomato Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This 30-minute meal is a lifesaver for busy evenings when you crave homemade flavors without the fuss.
Rich, Comforting Sauce: The vibrant cherry tomato sauce, enhanced with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, wraps the chicken in warmth that feels like a hug.
Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted mozzarella, every bite is creamy and satisfying, making it a family favorite that will have everyone wanting seconds.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from the tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile Dish: Feel free to experiment by swapping chicken for shrimp or even adding veggies for a nutritious twist!
Ready to impress your loved ones? Serve it over pasta or with a salad for a complete meal that’s sure to delight!
Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Fillets – The star of the dish, providing a lean protein source that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher salt works best for seasoning.
- Black Pepper – Adds just the right amount of heat; freshly cracked is ideal for better flavor.
For the Sauce
- Garlic Powder – Brings depth to the dish; fresh garlic can provide an even more robust taste.
- Sweet Paprika – Adds a lovely sweetness and color; consider smoked paprika for an adventurous twist.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing, it contributes healthy fats; any neutral oil is a good substitute.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; ghee can be used for a lactose-free variant.
- Shallot – Offers a mild onion flavor; feel free to substitute with yellow onion if needed.
- Garlic Cloves – Freshens up the sauce; minced garlic packs a stronger punch compared to powder.
- Dry White Wine – Used for deglazing the pan and adding complexity; chicken broth can replace it if avoiding alcohol.
- Dried Basil – Provides herby goodness; fresh basil elevates the flavor if available.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens and intensifies the sauce; regular tomato sauce is an alternative but may alter texture.
- Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and enhances overall flavor; vegetable broth can lighten it up.
- Canned Cherry Tomatoes – The main ingredient for a fresh tasting sauce; crushed tomatoes work in a pinch.
- Chopped Basil Leaves – Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.
For the Toppings
- Mozzarella Balls – Delivers that delicious creaminess and stretch; substitute with shredded mozzarella if preferred.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds umami richness; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but helps amp up the heat!
This Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is not just another weeknight meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings the family together around the dinner table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by mincing 3 garlic cloves and chopping 1 shallot and your mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure you have everything ready to go when cooking Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Having your ingredients prepared in advance helps the cooking process flow smoothly, allowing for quicker assembly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take about 4 chicken fillets and season them generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. Make sure each piece is covered evenly, which will enhance the flavors of the Garlic Tomato Chicken. Let the seasoned chicken sit for a few minutes while you heat your skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In an oven-proof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and bubbled, add the seasoned chicken fillets. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover it with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add your chopped shallot and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and the shallot turns translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce, infusing the Garlic Tomato Chicken with rich tastes from the sautéed aromatics.
Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, gently scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release those tasty brown bits. Allow the wine to simmer for 2 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the flavors concentrate for the upcoming sauce.
Step 6: Build the Sauce
Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, along with a dash of salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Cook this mixture for 1 minute, letting it all meld together. The tomato paste will help give your sauce a rich, velvety texture that complements the Garlic Tomato Chicken beautifully.
Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, add 1 cup of chicken broth and a can of cherry tomatoes (about 14 ounces) to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This step will thicken the sauce and combine all the flavors, resulting in a vibrant sauce for the chicken.
Step 8: Combine Chicken and Cheese
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over it. Top each fillet with a few basil leaves and a handful of mozzarella balls. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat until the cheese begins to melt, or place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10 minutes for a bubbly topping of gooey goodness.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once the mozzarella is beautifully melted and the chicken is warmed through, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Serve your Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella over pasta, with ciabatta, or alongside a fresh salad for a hearty meal!
Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella Variations
Feel free to embrace your culinary creativity and customize this delightful dish to suit your taste!
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Seafood Swap: Use shrimp or fish instead of chicken for a lighter, ocean-inspired twist that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during cooking to add vibrant colors and nutrients, boosting the overall dish’s healthiness.
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Herb Exploration: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead of basil for a completely new flavor profile that brightens up your dinner experience.
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Spice It Up: If you love a kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers for heat, bringing an exciting zing to every bite.
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Pasta Inclusive: Mix in cooked pasta directly into the sauce at the end to create a creamy one-pan pasta delight, enhancing meal prep simplicity.
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Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella for creamy goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and taste, making a lovely change to the classic recipe.
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Nut-Free Option: Use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep the dish dairy-free while still packing a punch of umami flavor.
If you want to learn more about creative swaps, consider adding colorful veggies from your favorite side dishes or experiment with culinary herbs in your everyday cooking! Each idea unlocks the potential to transform this comforting meal into something uniquely yours. Enjoy the journey!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Freezer: Freeze the Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, or microwave until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Serving Suggestion: Consider pairing with fresh pasta or a warm salad when serving reheated leftovers to retain that comforting feel!
What to Serve with Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the comforting flavors of your chicken dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes balances the richness of the tomato sauce beautifully. It’s the perfect base to soak up those wonderful juices.
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Garlic Bread: Toasted with a garlicky herb spread, this crunchy delight is an ideal companion, ensuring every last drop of sauce on your plate is savored.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and tangy parmesan add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the velvety chicken. It’s light, yet just filling enough to round out your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies brings a pop of color and nutrition, adding depth and a caramelized sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory chicken.
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Pasta Primavera: Tossed in a light olive oil dressing, this vibrant pasta showcases fresh vegetables that amplify the flavors of the Garlic Tomato Chicken. It’s a delicate balance of taste and texture.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, enhances the overall dining experience, pairing fabulously with the richness of the dish.
With these sides, your meal will be a true culinary delight, bringing warmth and joy to the table!
Expert Tips for Garlic Tomato Chicken
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Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken fillets with spices even for 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor of your Garlic Tomato Chicken tremendously.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil make a world of difference in taste. Opt for fresh rather than dry for a more vibrant sauce.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to avoid overcooking and ensure it remains juicy. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
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Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape the pan well when deglazing with wine to incorporate the flavor-packed brown bits into your sauce.
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Customize Your Sauce: Don’t hesitate to add more vegetables or swap proteins. This Garlic Tomato Chicken can easily adapt to your family’s taste preferences.
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Avoid Soggy Chicken: Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. Placing foil over it keeps it warm without making it soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella recipes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken fillets and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to penetrate the meat for a succulent taste. Additionally, the vibrant cherry tomato sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply sauté the aromatics, deglaze, and add the canned cherry tomatoes, then store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the chicken, and top with mozzarella before simmering or baking until bubbly and melted. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful home-cooked meal with minimum effort during busy weeknights!
Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken fillets?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken fillets, look for ones that are pinkish in color with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should feel moist but not sticky. Ideally, aim for fillets that are plump and uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it, which helps to retain flavor and moisture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and tender.
Can I freeze Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. To do so, allow the Garlic Tomato Chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.
What are some common issues when cooking this dish?
One challenge people might face is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. To prevent this, always check for an internal temperature of 165°F and consider letting the chicken rest under foil after cooking to keep it juicy. Another potential issue is the sauce being too thin; if this happens, you can simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it before serving.
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary preferences like gluten-free or dairy-free?
Very much so! For a gluten-free version, ensure that any broth or wine you use is gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, simply omit the mozzarella and parmesan, or substitute with plant-based alternatives like nutritional yeast for added flavor. The recipe can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs while still being delicious!
Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella: A 30-Minute Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mince 3 garlic cloves, chop 1 shallot, and cut mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces.
- Season 4 chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the seasoned chicken fillets for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken, cover with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped shallot and minced garlic for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping the bottom.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, a dash of salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth and a can of cherry tomatoes, boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, top with mozzarella balls and basil leaves, simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and serve over pasta, with ciabatta, or alongside a fresh salad.
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