Garlic Tomato Chicken – Best One-Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that doesn’t take hours to make, this Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is the perfect answer. Bursting with bold garlic flavor, juicy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this skillet dinner brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning a cozy dinner for two, this recipe delivers on ease, taste, and satisfaction. Plus, it’s gluten-free, protein-packed, and perfect for weeknight cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

This Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella stands out because it’s equal parts indulgent and practical. With minimal prep and one pan, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and comforting without the fuss. The garlic-forward tomato sauce is rich but not heavy, while the melted mozzarella adds a cheesy finish that makes each bite irresistible.

Thanks to ingredients like balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes, this dish also balances acidity and heat beautifully — offering layers of flavor without needing dozens of ingredients. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, bread, or a crisp salad, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

• Chicken Breasts: The lean protein base of the dish, they soak up all the flavor from the sauce
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances every ingredient and balances the richness
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds subtle fruitiness and depth
• Garlic: The star aromatic that builds the flavor foundation
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs like oregano and basil to infuse Mediterranean notes

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick that cuts through the creaminess
• Crushed Tomatoes: Forms the body of the sauce; tangy, bright, and full of umami
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and a savory backbone to the tomato base
• Balsamic Vinegar: Offers a slight sweetness and acidic contrast
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce and over the chicken for that irresistible cheesy pull
• Fresh Basil Leaves: A fresh, peppery garnish that lifts the whole dish

Ingredient Swaps and Dietary Tweaks

• Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Swap breasts for boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken alternatives and dairy-free mozzarella for a vegan version.
• No Mozzarella? Try provolone or fontina — they melt beautifully and offer a similar creamy finish.
• Low-Sodium Diet: Choose low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt to control the sodium content.
• Heat Preference: Not a fan of spice? Skip the red pepper flakes or reduce them for a milder version.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella

1. Season the Chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. This step is key for getting a golden sear and locking in flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken
   In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until nicely browned and fully cooked (internal temp should be 165°F). Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Garlic Tomato Base
   In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for an herby, spicy boost.
4. Deglaze and Simmer
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Return Chicken and Melt Cheese
   Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning tomato sauce over each piece. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Sprinkle mozzarella on top, cover with a lid, and cook for 2-3 more minutes — just until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Top with fresh basil leaves right before serving for a fragrant, fresh finish.

Kitchen Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Once it hits 165°F internally, remove it — overcooked chicken turns rubbery.
• Let Cheese Rest Covered: After melting the cheese, allow the skillet to sit covered for a minute off heat. This helps the cheese set slightly without getting oily.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Avoid jarred garlic — fresh cloves offer a more intense, sweet-savory flavor essential to this recipe.
• Deglaze Like a Pro: After searing chicken, scrape all the bits at the bottom. They hold tons of flavor!
• Store Leftovers Wisely: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Delicious Ways to Serve and Modify

Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to suit your mood or dietary needs:

• Over Pasta: Toss with spaghetti or penne to soak up the rich tomato sauce
• With Rice or Quinoa: A lighter, gluten-free option that still satisfies
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up that garlicky tomato goodness
• Over Zoodles or Cauliflower Rice: Great for a low-carb dinner
• Add Spinach or Kale: Stir into the sauce before topping with cheese for a veggie boost
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat
• Meal Prep Friendly: Portion into containers with rice and veggies — reheats well for lunches

Why This Dish is a Healthy Comfort Food

This comforting skillet dinner isn’t just tasty — it offers impressive nutritional value. The chicken provides lean protein, while the tomato-based sauce is rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Garlic supports immune health, and olive oil adds heart-healthy fats. Best of all, it’s made without cream or heavy ingredients, so you enjoy richness without unnecessary calories.

Plus, if you’re watching carbs or following a gluten-free lifestyle, Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella fits in beautifully — especially when paired with cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Bringing together bold flavors, rich texture, and weeknight simplicity, Garlic Tomato Chicken with Mozzarella checks all the boxes for a go-to comfort meal. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, customizable for various diets, and pairs perfectly with your favorite sides. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. The harmony of garlic, tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella is timeless — and with just one skillet and under 40 minutes, you’ll be amazed at how something this delicious can be so effortless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo: This classic Italian pasta features a rich, cheesy sauce that complements the garlic and mozzarella notes in Garlic Tomato Chicken. A great side or main for comfort-food lovers.
• Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken: A flavorful baked chicken recipe with melty cheese and bold seasonings, perfect for those who enjoy spiced tomato and cheese combinations.
• Easy Homemade Creamy Tomato Soup: Rich, garlicky tomato base with a creamy texture — perfect to pair with crusty bread or even with Garlic Tomato Chicken for a two-course Italian-inspired dinner.

Print