Easy Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken Recipe: A Juicy, Flavorful Dinner in Under 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that tastes like a comforting home-cooked meal, this Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken is the perfect dish. It’s bursting with flavors from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and the juicy, tender chicken will have your family asking for seconds! Best of all, it's ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first stumbled upon this recipe while browsing a Facebook page called "Recipes by Lisa", and I just had to try it. Now, I’m excited to share this amazing recipe with you! It quickly became a staple in my household, and I think it will in yours too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of savory garlic and tangy tomatoes really elevates this dish, giving it a rich, robust flavor without being overly complicated. The addition of melted mozzarella or Parmesan adds that comforting, cheesy finish. Plus, you can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking, making it a versatile option for different palates.

A Little Background

Chicken baked with tomatoes and garlic is a classic Mediterranean-inspired dish, rich in flavor and wholesome ingredients. With its origins tied to the use of fresh, simple produce, this recipe mirrors the timeless culinary traditions found in regions like Southern Italy and Greece. Garlic and tomatoes are natural companions, bringing out the best in each other while keeping the dish light yet satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4-5 Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Season the Chicken
   Rub each chicken breast with a bit of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Lay the chicken breasts flat in your prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Tomato Mixture
   In a medium bowl, combine the chopped Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mix well.
4. Top the Chicken
   Spoon the tomato-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each one is covered with a generous amount of the tomato mixture.
5. Bake
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Add the Cheese
   About 5 minutes before the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Parmesan over each chicken breast. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or a simple salad.

Pro Tip:

Serve this with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. It’s a perfect way to elevate the meal!

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the cheese or use a low-fat version to cut down on calories.
• Spicy Kick: Add a bit more red pepper flakes or drizzle with some hot sauce for those who love an extra spicy kick.

This Garlic Tomato Baked Chicken is not only satisfying and delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it once, and it’ll become a regular on your weekly dinner rotation!

Did you love this recipe? Please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share it with your friends, and be sure to follow me for more easy and flavorful recipes just like this.