Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

Posted on November 19, 2025

Easy Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

So, picture this: a rainy Saturday evening, cozy in my kitchen with a dim light flickering above, the smell of garlic wafting through the air. There’s something oh-so-comforting about cooking on a weekend, especially when the weather outside isn’t exactly cooperating. Enter my favorite little hero of the kitchen: Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

I still remember the first time I made this dish. I stumbled upon it in a well-loved cookbook that had seen better days but still had that magical ability to conjure up recipes that felt like a hug. Honestly, though, my initial attempt was nothing short of a comedy show. I may or may not have added a bit too much paprika—a culinary misstep that led to what I affectionately call “the lava chicken incident.” Spoiler alert: it was indeed too spicy, and there were some questionable flavor combinations. But I wasn’t deterred. I learned, I tweaked, and now my Garlic Tomato Chicken is a staple in our household, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

What makes this recipe so special? For one, it’s an easy weeknight dinner, perfect for that post-office fatigue or, if you’re like me, a way to impress without the fuss. It’s filled with juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella—comfort food at its best. In fact, I often find myself daydreaming about it during those boring conference calls, wondering when I can whip it up next. Add in some fresh basil, and my heart sings!

As I talk about this heavenly dish, I can already envision the lovely aroma enveloping my kitchen, the sizzle of chicken hitting the hot pan, and that cheesy goodness that awaits. Get ready, because I’m about to take you on a savory adventure through my beloved Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on your table.
Comforting vibes: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and cheese feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Meal prep marvel: Great for leftovers; it only gets better as it sits.
Family-friendly: Even the pickiest of eaters often give it a thumbs-up.
Budget-friendly: Utilizing pantry staples, this dish won’t break the bank.
Healthy comfort food: Loaded with protein, it’s a wonderful option for any keto meal plan.

Honestly, cooking this dish doubles as therapy. It feels grounding to chop, simmer, and create something savory and fulfilling from scratch.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Let’s dig into what makes this dish pop. The garlic brings depth and warmth, while cherry tomatoes burst with a sweet juiciness that compliments the savory chicken. I don’t know about you, but there’s something mesmerizing about watching cheese bubble and melt—my heart does a little dance every time! There’s also the addition of white wine. If you’re worried about it being too much for a casual dinner, fear not; it cooks down beautifully, infusing the sauce with a subtle depth without a robust alcohol flavor. It’s the little things that transform dinner into a memorable experience.

I also like to think of this recipe as adaptable; it can be elevated with simple tweaks. Are you feeling adventurous? Experiment with different herbs or throw in some roasted veggies for good measure. Cooking doesn’t have to be rigid—it’s all about finding what makes your heart flutter.

Ingredients

Now, let’s gather our trusty ingredients!

4 chicken fillets: Juicy and high in protein, they form the backbone of this dish.
1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper: Classic seasoning to enhance flavors.
1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp sweet paprika: Adds flavor and a little kick.
1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter: For sautéing and a rich finish.
1 shallot: Finely chopped for a milder onion flavor.
4 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic goodness!
¼ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio): Love to deglaze the pan and add nuance—go with something you enjoy sipping on!
1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried basil: These are vital for building the sauce.
2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrated flavor for added richness.
½ cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and tender.
1 can (14 oz/400 g) cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes: It adds sweetness and acidity—either way, it’s winning. Don’t skip this!
3 tbsp chopped basil leaves: Fresh herbaceous notes finish the dish beautifully.
2 mozzarella balls (chopped): This one is the star! Who doesn’t love gooey melted cheese?
3 tbsp grated Parmesan: A bit of sharpness goes a long way.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those of us who like a bit of heat.

Remember, the key to a good dish is high-quality ingredients. When in doubt, visit your local farmer’s market for fresh produce!

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Cooking can feel like a chore if you let it, but when you follow these steps, you’ll see how fun and rewarding it can actually be.

Prep Work: First, let’s get our ducks in a row (or chicken fillets in this case). Mince the garlic, finely chop that shallot (bonus points for not crying when you cut it!), and dice the mozzarella into cubes. Get it all done beforehand to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. Trust me on this—it makes a world of difference!
Heat Things Up: Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F) if you’re planning to bake the chicken later. Heat olive oil and butter in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the Chicken: Carefully place those seasoned fillets into the skillet. You should hear that lovely sizzle! Cook for about 5 minutes per side until they’re delightfully browned. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate; cover with foil to keep them warm.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and shallots. The moment those hit the pan, oh man! Your kitchen will smell divine. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
Deglaze with Wine: Here comes the fun part—history is about to be made! Pour in the dry white wine, letting it simmer for about 2 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. (You know the ones; they’re packed with flavor!)
Build the Sauce: Add the salt, pepper, dried basil, and tomato paste. Stir everything to combine, and cook for an additional minute while your kitchen transforms into an Italian bistro atmosphere.
Add Liquids: Now, pour in that chicken broth. Stir to mix, then add the canned cherry tomatoes. Bring it all to a good boil, reduce to a simmer, and let it do its thing for about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Nestle the Chicken: Time to bring the chicken back into the mix! Nestle them in between the cherry tomatoes, then sprinkle with chopped basil and mozzarella cubes. Top it all off with some black pepper, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan.
Simmer or Bake: If you’re in the mood, let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes on the stovetop until the flavors meld together and the cheese is all ooey-gooey. Alternatively, you can slide the skillet into your preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve: Voila! Grab a big spoon and dig in. Serve this beauty hot and enjoy the blissful flavors that erupt with every bite.

Tips for Best Results

Get crafty with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some olives or sun-dried tomatoes. You really can’t go wrong!
Keep watch during cooking: The key is golden, not overcooked—no one wants dry chicken.
Use fresh herbs: They provide a delightful freshness that dried herbs just can’t compete with. If you have extras, toss them into a salad for a burst of flavor!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Let’s say you’re out of something; fear not! Cooking is about flexibility.

Chicken: Substitute with turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Tomatoes: If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, crushed or diced tomatoes work just as lovely.
Wine: No wine at home? Use extra chicken broth and a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Cheese: Little mozzarella is magnificent, but feel free to swap in feta or goat cheese!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this scrumptious dish with a fresh salad drizzled with balsamic dressing or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. A glass of chilled white wine would elevate the experience to something special. To be real, this and a romantic movie in a cozy blanket on the couch? Perfection!

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers are a godsend, let’s be real. Store any uneaten Garlic Tomato Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When it’s time to reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve that lovely texture. If you’re super hungry, a microwave will do in a pinch—just keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Good news! You can prepare the base sauce a day ahead and simply add the chicken and cheese when ready to cook. However, I wouldn’t recommend freezing once the cheese is added, as it might change the texture. Instead, freeze the sauce alone, and just pull it out when the craving strikes!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the deglazing: Those brown bits stuck to the pan are flavor gold! Don’t skip this step; it makes everything taste better.
Overcooking the chicken: Trust me; no one likes dry chicken. A meat thermometer is your friend—aim for 165 °F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Not tasting along the way: Adjust seasoning as you go! Cooking is a journey, and it should taste delightful at every stop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

What if I don’t have any cherry tomatoes?
No problem! You can use diced tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes. Actively look for options!

How spicy does this recipe get?
The level of spice depends entirely on how much crushed red pepper you sprinkle and if you choose to add more on your plate!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large ovenproof skillet
Wooden spoon
Sharp knife for chopping
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board

Final Thoughts

My Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella has become more than just a recipe; it’s a memory-maker, a cozy-night essential, and a go-to dish that never fails to impress. There’s something magical about creating a meal that fills the house with warmth, love, and savory aromas. I hope you give this delightful recipe a try, invite some friends over, or simply enjoy a quiet evening with a plateful of this deliciousness—whatever makes your heart sing!

Remember to share your version or your funny kitchen mishaps with me! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!