Welcome to My Kitchen!
Hi there! If you love juicy chicken with the perfect blend of flavors, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. Trust me, this dish not only tastes incredible but is also simple enough to make on a weeknight. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this mouthwatering meal and impress your family or friends!
Nutritional Benefits of Garlic Tomato Chicken
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the amazing health benefits packed in this dish! First, we have chicken breast, which is a fantastic source of lean protein. That means it’s great for building muscle and keeping you energized throughout the day. Pair that with cherry tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and K, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for your health!
Fun Variations to Make
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are many ways you can adapt it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Substitute the Cheese: If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese or simply skip it. The dish will still be packed with flavor!
- Add Vegetables: Got some spinach or zucchini lying around? Toss them in with the cherry tomatoes for an added nutritional boost!
- Spice It Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat if you love a spicy kick!
- Different Proteins: Swap the chicken breast for salmon or shrimp for a fantastic twist!
Delicious Garlic Tomato Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella (sliced or in balls)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Grab your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Don’t be shy; this is where all the flavor starts!
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and mix it up. Let those cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to burst and soften.
- Add Marinara Sauce (optional): If you’re feeling saucy, now is the time to stir in the marinara sauce! Mix it well with the tomatoes and let it heat through.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Time to bring back the chicken! Nestle your seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the tomatoes.
- Add Mozzarella: Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella. Look at that cheesy goodness!
- Bake: Now, it’s off to the oven! Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is all melty and bubbly.
- Garnish: Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil over the top for that pop of flavor!
- Serve: Serve your chicken hot, spooning the delicious garlic and tomato sauce over each piece. Enjoy your masterpiece!
Practical Tips for Success
- Leftover chicken? Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently to keep it juicy!
- Serve it with a side of pasta or a green salad for a complete meal!
- If you want to add more flavor, let the chicken marinate in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Equipment Needed
To make this delicious garlic tomato chicken, you’ll need:
- A large oven-safe skillet
- A cutting board and knife for chopping
- A spatula for flipping the chicken
- A meat thermometer to check for doneness
- A serving platter or individual plates for serving
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking!
- Can I prep this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can season the chicken and prepare the tomatoes in advance, then bake when you’re ready.
- What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes? You can use diced regular tomatoes instead!
- Can this dish be made on the grill? Yes! Just grill the chicken and add the tomato and mozzarella mixture in a grill-safe dish.
- What side dishes pair well with this chicken? A light salad, garlic bread, or a nice bed of pasta all complement this dish beautifully!
Join Me on This Culinary Adventure!
I hope you try this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella and love it as much as I do! Cooking should be fun and creative, and I’d love to see your version of this dish. Snap a picture and share it on Pinterest! Let’s keep the joy of cooking alive together!
