The allure of this Cheesy Garlic Tomato Chicken Delight lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor, offering a comforting embrace with each bite. This dish is a reflection of the unification of cuisines—a marriage between Italian and American comfort foods. It's perfect for those seeking a hearty meal, ideal for a family dinner, but elegant enough for a casual dinner party. This dish taps into the classic love affair with garlic and tomatoes, enhanced by the rich, gooey goodness of cheese. It's not just a recipe; it's an experience, an excellent choice for both neophyte kitchen enthusiasts and seasoned cooks looking to delight their palates.

This delightful entrée pairs beautifully with a simple side of al dente angel hair pasta and a light drizzle of olive oil, a mixed green salad tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette, or for a heartier companion, a rustic garlic bread to sop up the delicious sauce.

Servings: 4

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano on both sides.

3. In a large, oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 5 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove and set aside.

4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.

5. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.

6. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Stir in the basil and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

7. Return the chicken to the pan and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving if desired.

- If you’re seeking a lighter version, you can substitute the cheeses with their low-fat counterparts.
- Want to incorporate more veggies? Spinach or zucchini can be added to the tomato mixture before baking.
- For those with a penchant for heat, dial up the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Keep an eye on the garlic as it sautés. Garlic can turn from golden to burned very quickly, which can impart a bitter taste.
- Using an oven-proof skillet makes this a one-pan dish; however, if you do not have one, simply transfer everything to a baking dish before adding the chicken and cheese.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove