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!