As a seasoned home cook who's perfected countless weeknight dinners, this Chicken Mozzarella in Tomato Sauce is one of my go-to recipes. It's incredibly simple, ready in under 30 minutes, and bursts with flavor—perfect when you're short on time or ideas.
Juicy pan-seared chicken fillets are smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella, then broiled to golden perfection. The result? A dish that tastes like it simmered for hours.
With just 30 minutes total (often less), this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste at home. Sear the chicken in minutes while pasta boils nearby, then simmer the sauce for 10 minutes. Your family will come running at the irresistible aroma!
The secret to its depth? A tablespoon of sun-dried tomato pesto. I've used it in soups and sauces for years—it amplifies natural flavors beautifully. Classic basil pesto works too, but try the tomato version for that extra wow.
I love pairing it with linguine to soak up the sauce, or crusty toasted bread. Ready to try? It's foolproof—follow along:
- 4 small chicken fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 70g sliced onions
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (400 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian spice mix and red peppers
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato pesto
- Salt and pepper + 60 ml water
- 4 slices mozzarella or 150g grated mozzarella
- Optional: chopped fresh basil or parsley + pasta or toast
1. Season each side of the chicken fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe non-stick skillet.
3. Add chicken and cook 5 minutes per side until done.
4. Remove to a plate.
5. If serving with pasta, start boiling water now per package instructions.
6. Preheat oven to broil.
7. Add onions to pan juices (or a touch more oil). Sauté 3 minutes until soft.
8. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.
9. Stir in crushed tomatoes, spices, red pepper, dried basil, and pesto.
10. As it simmers, add 60 ml water.
11. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10 minutes until thickened.
12. Season with salt and pepper.
13. Nestle chicken into sauce, spoon some over top.
14. Top each fillet with mozzarella.
15. Broil 2 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Your Chicken Mozzarella in Tomato Sauce is ready! Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with pasta, toast, or salad. It's a hit every time—simple, quick, and delicious.
- Spoon sauce over chicken before broiling to keep it moist.
- Sun-dried tomato pesto is my secret for that slow-simmered taste; basil pesto is a great sub.
- Adjust red pepper to taste or omit for mild.
- Extra sauce freezes perfectly for later.
