Chicken breasts with baked tomatoes and mozzarella

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes, halved if large)
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella (sliced or shredded)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  • Gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly.

3. Season the Chicken:

  • Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil.
  • Season both sides with dried basil or Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Arrange the Chicken and Tomatoes:

  • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  • Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the dish.

5. Bake:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C) and the tomatoes are starting to soften.

6. Add the Cheese:

  • Remove the dish from the oven.
  • Place slices or shreds of fresh mozzarella over the chicken breasts.
  • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella and tomatoes.

7. Broil (Optional):

  • For a golden, bubbly top, switch the oven to broil.
  • Return the dish to the oven and broil for 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

8. Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta. Enjoy your flavorful chicken with baked tomatoes and mozzarella!