I can’t stress enough how much I loved making this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull together. The tender chicken nestled in a tangy tomato sauce, complemented by gooey mozzarella, is pure comfort on a plate.
The best part? It’s ready in under 40 minutes and pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.
Credit: servingdumplings
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays a key role, so don’t skip the tips!
- 4 chicken fillets
Choose fresh fillets for the best texture; pound them slightly to ensure even cooking. - 1 tsp salt
Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out flavors. - 1 tsp black pepper
Adds a touch of heat and balances the dish. - 1 tsp garlic powder
Enhances the garlicky notes without overpowering. - 1 tsp sweet paprika
Gives a smoky sweetness and bright color.
For the cherry tomato sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Use extra virgin for richer flavor. - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Marries the sauce ingredients beautifully. - 1 shallot, finely chopped
More subtle than onions, shallots add a mild sweetness. - 4 garlic cloves, minced
Fresh garlic is key for that bold aroma. - ¼ cup white wine
Try Pinot Grigio for acidity; chicken broth works as a non-alcoholic substitute. - 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil
If you’ve got fresh basil, it’s even better! - 2 tbsp tomato paste
Concentrated tomato flavor that builds the sauce’s base. - ½ cup chicken broth
Adds richness and depth to the sauce. - 1 can (14 oz) of cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
Canned cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and intense fruitiness. - 3 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
Stirring these in at the end elevates the dish. - 2 fresh mozzarella balls, chopped
Avoid grated mozzarella; fresh melts creamier and blends seamlessly. - 3 tbsp grated Parmesan
Adds a nutty element and a dash of savoriness. - Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Sprinkle just before serving for a spicy kick.
Note: This recipe serves 4. Adjust proportions if needed for larger gatherings.
Variations
Adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences:
- Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy hint.
- Sugar-Free: Avoid substitutes; the natural sweetness from tomatoes is sufficient.
- Flavor Boost: Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra depth.
- Low Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes for some heat.
If you’re a fan of bold Asian flavors, you can also enjoy a spicy twist with this Kung Pao Chicken Recipe.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large skillet: To sear the chicken and simmer the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pan.
- Chef’s knife: For slicing and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting board: To prep vegetables and chicken safely.
- Tongs: To flip the chicken fillets with ease.
- Oven (optional): Handy if you choose to finish the dish in the oven.
How to Make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
Prepare the chicken
Season the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides. Heat a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for five minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and cover them with foil to keep warm.
Make the sauce
Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant, about two minutes. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up the flavorful browned bits. After simmering for two minutes, stir in salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste. Continue stirring until the tomato paste melds with the other ingredients.
Build the dish
Pour in chicken broth and canned cherry tomatoes. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly while simmering for five minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the pan, letting it soak up the sauce’s flavors.
Add the cheeses
Top the chicken with fresh basil, mozzarella pieces, and grated Parmesan. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat. Either cover the skillet and simmer on the stovetop for five minutes or slide it into a preheated oven (400°F) for 10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top. Serve immediately!
Credit: servingdumplings
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
Here’s what I wish I knew the first time I made this dish. These small tweaks make a big difference:
- Use fresh basil sparingly at first, then add more if you need. It’s potent!
- Pound the chicken fillets for even cooking and better texture.
- Fresh cherry tomatoes can replace canned; just add a bit of crushed tomatoes for liquid consistency.
- Simmer the sauce longer if you like it thicker.
- Save some Parmesan for sprinkling just before serving.
You might also love exploring bold Mexican flavors with this Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe.
How to Serve Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella?
Presentation elevates any meal! I love serving this dish over al dente spaghetti, garnished with freshly torn basil leaves. Pair it with crusty bread to mop up the sauce or a green salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread is always a hit on the side.
Nutritional Information
This dish strikes a balance of protein, good fats, and flavor. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 374
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 29g
Make Ahead and Storage
- Restoring: Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat to preserve texture and flavor.
- Freezing: Fully cool the dish before transferring to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to three months.
- Refrigeration: Leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for three days when stored in an airtight container.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe checks all the boxes for a standout meal. Here’s why it’s worth trying:
- Quick and easy: A restaurant-quality dish in under 40 minutes.
- Customizable: Adapt it to suit different diets or flavor preferences.
- Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family or guests with minimal effort.
- Rich and comforting: The cheesy, garlicky tomato sauce is irresistibly good.
- Versatile pairing: Works equally well with pasta, bread, or lighter sides.
Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella isn’t just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed hit! From its vibrant colors to its rich flavors, this dish brings joy to every table. Save it for the next family dinner, date night, or anytime you’re craving something warm and wholesome. For more flavorful ideas, check out these fantastic Chicken Recipes.