Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. If the breasts are very thick, carefully slice them horizontally or pound them to an even thickness so they cook more evenly.
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub with the minced garlic. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the Tomatoes
Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the top of each chicken breast, slightly overlapping them.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the tomatoes.
3. Add the Cheese
Generously cover each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese.
The combination of fresh tomatoes, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a deliciously cheesy topping as it bakes.
4. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
For a beautifully golden cheese topping, you can place the dish under the broiler for the final 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so the cheese doesn’t burn.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve warm.
What to Serve With Tomato & Cheese Chicken
This chicken pairs wonderfully with:
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed broccoli
Roasted vegetables
Green salad
Rice
Pasta
Crusty garlic bread
Tips for the Best Results
Use ripe but firm tomatoes so they hold their shape while baking.
Pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and gives the dish a creamy topping.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the chicken retain its juices.
Always check the chicken with a food thermometer rather than relying only on cooking time.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
Baked Tomato & Cheese Chicken is a simple way to turn everyday ingredients into a flavorful family dinner. Juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, fragrant Italian seasoning, and bubbling melted cheese make every bite satisfying without requiring complicated preparation.
