If you are craving a cozy, wholesome dinner that bursts with bold flavors and comforting aromas, the Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need to try tonight. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a vibrant garlic tomato sauce, baked to perfection and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a soul-satisfying meal packed with Italian-American charm that you can easily make on a busy weeknight but will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. Once you discover this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe lies in the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the succulent chicken to the punchy garlic and rich, tangy tomatoes, along with Italian seasoning that brings everything together with a perfect flavor balance.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized pieces for consistent cooking and maximum juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing garlic with a hint of fruitiness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic delivers that unmistakable aroma and flavor that warms the soul.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained slightly: Provides a chunky, flavorful texture and vibrant tomato essence.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with richness and depth in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of fragrant herbs that evoke a Mediterranean escape.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle kick for those who love a little heat.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken, creating an irresistible gooey topping.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that contrasts perfectly with the tomato sauce.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Brings freshness, a pop of color, and an herbal lift to the finished dish.
How to Make Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Garlic
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant and golden, releasing its bold aromatics that will infuse the entire dish.
Step 2: Craft the Tomato Sauce
Next, add the diced tomatoes (remember to drain them slightly to avoid excess moisture), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some heat. Stir everything together and let it simmer on medium-low for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to cling to the chicken, marrying those vibrant flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken and Sauce
Place the chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. Pour the luscious tomato garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously covered. This sauce will keep the chicken moist while imparting an amazing burst of flavor during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the dish uncovered into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This step ensures the chicken cooks through while soaking up the tomato and garlic goodness.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Broil
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly across the chicken breasts. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese has melted, turned bubbly, and developed a lightly golden crust that’s utterly irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Rest
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Then, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a colorful, fresh finish that brightens and balances the rich flavors.
How to Serve Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are more than just pretty—they add a lively contrast that freshens each bite. You might also consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to elevate the final presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe shines when paired with simple sides that can soak up the flavorful sauce. Think al dente pasta tossed lightly in olive oil, creamy polenta, fluffy rice, or even some warm, crusty bread ready to mop up every last bit of that garlicky tomato goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, serve the chicken on a large platter surrounded by roasted vegetables and fresh herb sprigs. Alternatively, slice the chicken and dish it over a bed of cooked couscous or quinoa for a modern, wholesome twist. Either way, the vivid colors and melty cheese will make the dish a total showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe for up to 2 months. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the juicy texture or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep the sauce moist. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the chicken or curdling the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and are even more forgiving when baked, staying moist and tender. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Just be mindful of any side dishes or seasoning blends if strict gluten avoidance is needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. To make it dairy-free, simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese or substitute with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives. The tomato garlic sauce alone is vibrant and delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?
If fresh basil or parsley isn’t available, dried herbs can work in a pinch, but add them earlier in the sauce cooking process to release their flavors. Alternatively, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.
How spicy is this recipe with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The optional crushed red pepper flakes add just a mild heat that complements the garlic and tomato flavors without overwhelming. You can adjust the amount or leave it out entirely for a milder dish suitable for all palates.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend you try the Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe enough if you want an easy, comforting meal that feels special but won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. The flavors are vibrant, the chicken turns out perfectly tender, and the cheesy topping delivers that cozy touch everyone loves. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again—bon appétit!
Print
Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Italian-American dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts baked in a rich and garlicky tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy, gluten-free dinner that pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Tomato Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained slightly
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure it does not burn to retain its sweet flavor.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic oil. Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and meld the flavors.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, then pour the tomato garlic sauce evenly over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer darker, juicier meat.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
