Description
Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Pomodoro combines tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a fresh pomodoro sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The chicken is stuffed with mozzarella, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a flavorful homemade tomato sauce for an indulgent and elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks (to secure the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4–5 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with mozzarella cheese. Secure the opening with toothpicks. Rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Make the Pomodoro Sauce: While the chicken bakes, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes to thicken and combine the flavors.
- Assemble the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the toothpicks and place the chicken on serving plates. Spoon the pomodoro sauce generously over each chicken breast. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
- If you prefer a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream to the pomodoro sauce.
- For extra flavor, top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, but be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the pomodoro sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 53g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
