Description
This Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe features juicy boneless chicken breasts baked with a flavorful blend of diced tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s an easy, wholesome Italian-American main course perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a deliciously cheesy and satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Tomato Mixture
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer for even cooking.
- Mix tomato and herb sauce: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes with their juices, minced garlic, olive oil, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Pour sauce over chicken: Evenly pour the tomato and herb mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well coated with the sauce for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake chicken: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Add cheeses and finish baking: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the chicken. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juiciness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving to add a fresh herbal touch.
Notes
- This dish pairs excellently with pasta, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- For a juicier option, you can substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
