This Baked Mediterranean Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomato is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines succulent chicken breast, juicy tomatoes, and tangy mozzarella cheese. The sauce is a delightful blend of olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Mediterranean herbs that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a weeknight meal, packed with protein, vitamins, and aromatic herbs.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• Red onion – 2 pcs, sliced
• Tomatoes – 3 pcs, sliced
• Chicken breast – 800 g (28 oz), sliced into thin cutlets
• Mozzarella – 150 g (5.3 oz), sliced or shredded

For the Sauce:

• Olive oil – 70 ml (2.4 fl oz)
• Soy sauce – 40 ml (1.4 fl oz)
• Brown sugar – 30 g (1.1 oz)
• Dried rosemary – 5 g (0.2 oz)
• Oregano – 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Salt – 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Black pepper – 2 g (0.1 oz)
• Garlic – 20 g (0.7 oz), minced

Steps to Make Baked Mediterranean Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, rosemary, oregano, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
2. Whisk Together: Whisk the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well-blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add Chicken to Marinade: Place the chicken breast slices in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the top.
2. Marinate: Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for best results) in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the Red Onions and Tomatoes: While the chicken marinates, slice the red onions and tomatoes into thin rounds.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the marinated chicken breast slices in a single layer in a large baking dish. Scatter the sliced onions and tomatoes over the chicken.
2. Top with Mozzarella: Lay slices or sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the chicken and vegetables.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
2. Optional Broil: For a golden top, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for garnish if desired.
2. Serve Warm: Serve this flavorful dish warm alongside a fresh salad, rice, or crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

(Serves 4)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Calcium: 120mg
• Iron: 3mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. They may need a slightly longer cooking time than breasts.

2. Can I substitute fresh tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes can be a flavorful substitution. Use about half the amount, as their flavor is more concentrated.

3. Is there a dairy-free alternative for mozzarella?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese entirely and sprinkle nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor.

Tips for Making the Perfect Mediterranean Baked Chicken

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or even overnight.
2. Slice Chicken Evenly: Thin, even slices of chicken ensure quicker cooking and a juicier result.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add thyme, basil, or fresh rosemary for additional Mediterranean flair.
4. Broiling Tip: To achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish, use the broil setting in the last few minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave, or for best results, in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Baked Mediterranean Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomato is a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, paired with the sweetness of tomatoes, savory onions, and melted mozzarella, creates a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. The soy sauce-based marinade, with its blend of brown sugar, rosemary, oregano, and garlic, infuses every bite with a delightful taste of the Mediterranean. This recipe is versatile, simple, and a wonderful addition to any dinner rotation.