Crispy Chicken with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Basil
Golden, crispy chicken breasts topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil create a light yet indulgent Mediterranean dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a festive table, this recipe is bursting with color, flavor, and texture.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed or torn
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Set up a breading station: one plate with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour → egg → breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven).
2. Prepare the Tomato & Mozzarella Topping:
1. In a small bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
2. Place fried chicken in a baking dish. Spoon cherry tomato mixture over each piece.
3. Top with fresh mozzarella.
3. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and mozzarella is melted and slightly golden
4. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve warm with a side of roasted vegetables, pasta, or a light salad.
Tips:
For extra crispiness, bake chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet.
Cherry tomatoes can be roasted separately for a deeper flavor before adding to the chicken.
Substitute buffalo mozzarella for a creamier, richer flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 380–420 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g