Name: Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 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; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Introduction

Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings and pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread.

Garlic Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for garlic sauté)
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
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing chicken)
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
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Step 7: Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 8: Transfer the seared chicken breasts carefully into the tomato sauce skillet, nestling them so they are mostly submerged.
Step 9: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 10: Remove the lid and arrange mozzarella slices evenly over the chicken breasts.
Step 11: Cover again and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. Alternatively, place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 12: Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the chicken and cheese. Add grated Parmesan if desired.
Step 13: Serve immediately, accompanied by pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Swap fresh mozzarella for shredded mozzarella if preferred, but fresh slices melt more smoothly.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for additional vegetables.
Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a brighter sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The cheese may not be as melty after reheating, so consider adding fresh mozzarella before serving again.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to remain juicier, but adjust cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish contains a small amount of red pepper flakes which add mild heat, but they are optional. Omit them for a milder flavor.