I recently made this Garlic Tomato Chicken With Mozzarella Recipe, and I have to tell you, it was an absolute hit at my dinner table. The way the juicy chicken pairs with the rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella is simply heavenly.
It was one of those recipes where every bite felt like comfort and flavor all rolled into one. I love recipes like this because they’re easy to follow but taste complex in the best way. Plus, the kitchen smelled incredible while it was cooking.
Trust me when I say, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to for dinners when you want something satisfying yet simple to whip up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Before we get to the nitty-gritty of cooking, here’s why this garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella is stealing hearts left and right:
1. Easy to Make
This recipe is incredibly straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish without any hassle. It doesn’t involve any complicated techniques, so even beginners can nail it on their first try.
2. Bursting with Flavor
Garlic, juicy tomatoes, and mozzarella create a harmony of flavors that’s both bold and comforting. The herbs like oregano and basil add that unmistakable Italian flair, making the dish incredibly aromatic and rich.
3. Versatile and Customizable
You can serve this dish over pasta, with rice, or even alongside crusty bread. It’s also easy to adjust to your dietary preferences by swapping out specific ingredients (more on that later).
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe is fancy enough to serve at a dinner party but simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or an evening entertaining guests, this dish fits every scenario.
5. It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Who doesn’t love tender chicken and melted cheese? It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and sure to leave everyone singing your praises long after the meal.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Variations and Equipment You’ll Need
Fancy giving this recipe your personal touch? Here are a few ways to make it even more special:
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based mozzarella substitute instead of regular cheese.
- Add a Spice Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Flavor Boosts: Toss in sliced mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for extra layers of flavor.
- Sugar-Free Alternative: Opt for low-sugar canned tomatoes for a healthier option.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet – To sear the chicken and cook the sauce.
- Spatula – Helpful for flipping and handling the chicken.
- Knife and cutting board – For prepping the chicken and garlic.
- Lid for the skillet – To help the cheese melt evenly.
How to Make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
This Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers juicy chicken in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step 1. Prep the Chicken 🐓
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step lays the foundation for bold, delicious flavors.
Step 2. Sear It Up 🔥
Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken into the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They should have a golden-brown crust and be cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate temporarily.
Step 3. Make the Garlic Tomato Sauce 🍅
Using the same skillet (don’t wash it, those chicken bits add flavor!), sauté your minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Then pour in your canned diced tomatoes along with the dried basil and oregano. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes. It should thicken slightly but remain saucy.
Step 4. Reunite the Chicken and Sauce 🥘
Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece gets coated with the sauce. Simmer everything together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5. The Mozzarella Moment 🧀
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and bubbly.
Step 6. Garnish and Serve 🌿
If desired, top your dish with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and added freshness. Serve the dish hot and watch it disappear!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Pat the Chicken Dry
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning them. This step ensures a better sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan. - Don’t Overcook
Chicken can dry out quickly, so use a meat thermometer if needed. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. - Invest in Quality Cheese
Good mozzarella makes all the difference! Opt for fresh or high-quality shredded mozzarella for the creamiest results. - Adjust Salt Levels
Since canned tomatoes and mozzarella already have salt, season the dish with care to avoid over-salting.
How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
This dish pairs beautifully with many sides. You could serve it over pasta for a hearty meal or alongside roasted veggies for something lighter. For an extra-special touch, serve it with crusty bread so you can mop up all that delicious tomato sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a polished presentation.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 14g
It’s a satisfyingly hearty dish without going overboard on calories!
Make Ahead and Storage
This garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella is a great meal-prep option too. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for easy reheating.
Refrigeration
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container once cooled. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
No matter how you make it, store it, or serve it, this recipe is a keeper. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors of garlic, tomato, and mozzarella working their magic on your dinner plate!
Follow this easy video guide:
Garlic Tomato Chicken With Mozzarella Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes 14 ounces
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step lays the foundation for bold, delicious flavors.
- Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken into the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They should have a golden-brown crust and be cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate temporarily.
- Using the same skillet (don’t wash it, those chicken bits add flavor!), sauté your minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Then pour in your canned diced tomatoes along with the dried basil and oregano. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes. It should thicken slightly but remain saucy.
- Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece gets coated with the sauce. Simmer everything together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and bubbly.
- If desired, top your dish with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and added freshness. Serve the dish hot and watch it disappear!
Notes
- Pat the Chicken Dry
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning them. This step ensures a better sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan. - Don’t Overcook
Chicken can dry out quickly, so use a meat thermometer if needed. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. - Invest in Quality Cheese
Good mozzarella makes all the difference! Opt for fresh or high-quality shredded mozzarella for the creamiest results. - Adjust Salt Levels
Since canned tomatoes and mozzarella already have salt, season the dish with care to avoid over-salting.
