There’s something magical about the aroma of basil and mozzarella wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to my childhood when my mom would make this comforting dish on cozy Sunday afternoons. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and gooey mozzarella feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love how easy this recipe is, yet it never fails to impress. It’s perfect for a family dinner or even a casual get-together with friends. Plus, the vibrant colors make it just as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Whenever I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of those special moments shared around the table. It’s amazing how food can bring people together and create lasting memories. I hope this recipe brings a little joy and warmth to your home too.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start.
Tools and Equipment
Let me walk you through the tools that make this dish a breeze. You’ll need a baking dish to hold that juicy chicken. I prefer a glass one to see how things are cooking. A sharp knife is important for slicing those tomatoes and mozzarella neatly. It makes things feel fancy. You’ll also need a cutting board for all that chopping action.
Preparation
Let’s get to work on making our delicious baked chicken. These next steps are simple and fun.
Marinate Chicken
I drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts. Then I sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I rub it all in to make sure they’re evenly coated, and let them sit while we prep the rest.
Preheat Oven
I set my oven to 375°F. It preheats while I finish the rest of the prep.
Slice Mozzarella and Tomatoes
I grab my sharp knife and slice the mozzarella and tomatoes neatly. The slices should be even, not too thick. This way each bite has the perfect amount of cheese and tomato.
Directions
Let’s dive into getting this baked chicken with basil and mozzarella ready in no time.
Assemble Chicken
I lay the marinated chicken in a baking dish.
Then I place sliced tomatoes on each piece.
Next, I add shredded mozzarella and a few basil leaves.
Bake the Chicken
I cover the dish with foil.
Then, I slide it into the oven for 25 minutes at 375°F.
This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken goes great with a few tasty extras. Let me share some ideas I love.
Garnish
I always sprinkle a few fresh basil leaves on top. It adds a pop of green. A drizzle of balsamic glaze gives it a sweet tangy kick.
Make-Ahead Instructions
I know how busy life can get. Making this dish ahead of time is a real lifesaver!
First, marinate the chicken. You can do this the night before. Just coat the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then, pop it in the fridge.
Next, slice the mozzarella and tomatoes. Store them in separate containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Chop the basil leaves and keep them in a sealed bag.
Conclusion
Cooking this baked chicken with basil and mozzarella has been a delightful journey down memory lane for me. I hope it brings the same warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that captures the essence of family gatherings and shared moments. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe promises to deliver both flavor and comfort. Remember to savor each bite and the memories it creates. Happy cooking!
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