Garlic Tomato Chicken Dish

This garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal right in your home kitchen. The succulent chicken breasts nestle in a vibrant tomato sauce, topped with melty mozzarella that creates the perfect combination of flavors in every bite.

I discovered this recipe when looking for ways to use up garden tomatoes one summer, and it's become my go-to impressive yet easy dinner when hosting friends. The aroma of garlic and tomatoes simmering always fills my kitchen with the most inviting scent.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: provide the perfect protein base and absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce
• Salt, black pepper, and paprika: create a simple but flavorful seasoning blend for the chicken
• Olive oil: helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken
• Onion and garlic: form the aromatic foundation of the sauce
• Diced tomatoes: offer sweet and tangy notes that balance the dish perfectly
• Balsamic vinegar: adds depth and a slight sweetness that elevates the tomato sauce
• Italian seasoning: brings in herbal notes without needing multiple spice jars
• Red pepper flakes: optional but add a pleasant warmth without overwhelming heat
• Mozzarella cheese: creates that irresistible melty, stretchy topping
• Fresh basil: brightens the dish with color and herbaceous flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Start by patting chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, ensuring you'll get a beautiful sear. Mix salt, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl until uniform, then season both sides of the chicken generously. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust that seals in juices.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Place chicken breasts carefully into the hot pan, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until deeply golden. Flip once and repeat on the second side. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce later, so a light pink center is fine at this stage.

Make the Garlic Tomato Sauce:

Using the same skillet with all those flavorful browned bits, add chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook just until you can smell its aroma, about 60 seconds. Pour in diced tomatoes along with balsamic vinegar and seasonings, letting everything simmer until slightly thickened. The sauce will reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.

Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce:

Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling each piece into the bubbling sauce. Spoon some sauce over the tops to ensure maximum flavor infusion. Cover and reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking gently while absorbing the sauce flavors.

Add the Mozzarella:

Distribute mozzarella evenly over each chicken breast, then cover again just until cheese melts to perfection. For a more golden top, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The cheese should be bubbly and starting to get those delicious browned spots.

Garnish and Serve:

Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil for brightness and color contrast. Serve immediately while the cheese is still gloriously melty, preferably with your chosen side to soak up the delicious sauce.

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The balsamic vinegar is my secret weapon in this recipe. Just a tablespoon transforms the tomato sauce from good to extraordinary, adding complexity and a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly. My husband, who typically reaches for hot sauce with everything, never adds a thing to this dish.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Cherry tomatoes create a sweeter, more intense flavor profile compared to canned tomatoes. Fresh mozzarella offers a creamier texture while shredded provides more even coverage. You can also add vegetables like spinach and mushrooms to boost nutrition without changing the cooking method.

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Perfect Pairings

The rich tomato sauce begs for something to soak it up. Al dente pasta like linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, but don't overlook other options like creamy polenta, fluffy rice, or crusty Italian bread for dipping. For a lower-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually develop overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option. When reheating, cover loosely and warm on medium-low heat until just heated through to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherry tomatoes by halving them. This provides a fresh, slightly sweeter flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread are great options to serve alongside. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables also work well.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic tomato sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Reheat and assemble just before serving.

→ What can I use as a mozzarella substitute?

You can use provolone cheese or even parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, adding more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the dish a little extra heat.