Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken: Just the name alone conjures up images of a vibrant, flavorful, and utterly satisfying meal, doesn’t it? I know I’m instantly transported to a sun-drenched Italian trattoria! This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.

The beauty of garlic tomato mozzarella chicken lies in its Italian roots. Think of it as a deconstructed chicken parmesan, where each element shines individually yet complements the others beautifully. The combination of garlic, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine, a testament to the power of fresh, high-quality ingredients. This dish echoes the rustic charm of Southern Italy, where family meals are a sacred ritual and the aroma of garlic and tomatoes fills the air.

But why is this dish so beloved? It’s the symphony of flavors, of course! The tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, the pungent kick of garlic, the richness of the mozzarella, and the savory chicken all dance together on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of melted mozzarella? Get ready to experience a culinary delight that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Tomato Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly. Don’t overdo it, you don’t want to tear the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere. Make sure every part of the chicken is seasoned well.

Making the Tomato Sauce:

1. Sauté the Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If it’s too acidic, add a pinch more sugar.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
2. Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. The goal here is to get a nice sear on the outside, but the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.
3. Transfer to Sauce: Carefully transfer the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Nestle the chicken into the sauce, making sure it’s mostly submerged.
4. Simmer in Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.

Adding the Mozzarella and Finishing:

1. Add the Mozzarella: Remove the lid from the skillet. Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices evenly over the chicken breasts.
2. Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet again and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
3. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the chicken and cheese. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken immediately. It’s delicious served over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or chicken seasoning for a spicier dish. You could also use a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the garlic for a more flavorful sauce.
• Use different cheese: Instead of mozzarella, try using provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese into the tomato sauce at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Add wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry red or white wine after sautéing the garlic for a more complex flavor. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also sear the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to finish cooking.
• Baking Option: Instead of cooking on the stovetop, you can bake the chicken in the oven. After searing the chicken, transfer it to a baking dish, pour the tomato sauce over it, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
  • Pasta (spaghetti, penne, linguine)
  • Rice (white rice, brown rice, risotto)
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, zucchini)
  • Crusty bread
  • Salad

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken!

Conclusion:

This Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the juicy, perfectly cooked chicken breasts to the vibrant, garlicky tomato sauce and the melty, gooey mozzarella, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s all about the simplicity and the impact. We’re talking minimal ingredients, straightforward instructions, and maximum flavor payoff. The garlic-infused tomato sauce is bright and tangy, perfectly complementing the richness of the mozzarella and the savory chicken. It’s a dish that satisfies on so many levels, leaving you feeling full, happy, and wanting more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? The possibilities are endless! Serve this Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta – spaghetti, penne, or even linguine would work beautifully. Toss the pasta with some of the extra tomato sauce for an even more flavorful experience. Alternatively, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a lighter, healthier meal. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing would also be a fantastic complement.

Want to get creative? Consider these variations:

Spice it Up!

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a little kick.

Herb It Up!

Fresh basil or oregano sprinkled on top before serving will elevate the flavor profile even further.

Creamy Dreamy!

Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese into the tomato sauce for an extra creamy and decadent touch.

Mediterranean Twist!

Add some Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Balsamic Glaze Drizzle!

A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished dish adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the flavors perfectly.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love it as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Cooking should be fun and creative, so let your imagination run wild!

Now, it’s your turn! Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get cooking. I promise you won’t regret it. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear what you think of the recipe, what variations you tried, and how you served it. Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do.