Introduction

This chicken bake with garlic croutons is a deliciously simple dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are layered with rich passata, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, then topped with crunchy, flavorful garlic croutons. It’s a comforting meal that comes together easily and pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad.

A white bowl filled with a layered dish starting with a base of thick red tomato sauce, topped with whole small cherry tomatoes that are bright red and glossy, then creamy melted white mozzarella cheese scattered unevenly across. On top of the cheese and tomatoes are many pieces of golden brown toasted bread cubes with a crunchy texture, arranged loosely, and fresh green basil leaves placed on top for contrast, some resting on the bread and some on the cheese and tomatoes. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a silver spoon next to it, partially smeared with red sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 skinless chicken breasts

2 tbsp olive oil

200g passata

250g cherry tomatoes

125g ball reduced-fat mozzarella, drained and sliced

3 thick slices of sourdough or bloomer, cut into 2cm cubes

2 garlic cloves, crushed

Pinch of dried oregano

½ small bunch of basil, leaves picked

Green salad, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Slice each chicken breast halfway through and open them out like a book. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat half the olive oil in an ovenproof frying pan or shallow casserole dish. Fry the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until lightly golden.

Step 3: Pour the passata over the chicken in the pan. Nestle the cherry tomatoes in and around the chicken, then lay the mozzarella slices evenly over the top.

Step 4: In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with the remaining olive oil, crushed garlic, and dried oregano. Scatter the garlic croutons over the chicken and tomatoes.

Step 5: Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella has melted and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Remove from the oven, scatter the fresh basil leaves over the top, and serve immediately with a green salad.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a little garlic and herb seasoning before cooking.

If you prefer a crunchier topping, toast the bread cubes separately before tossing with garlic and oregano.

Swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a tangier twist.

Use fresh mozzarella instead of reduced-fat for a creamier texture.

Add a sprinkle of chilli flakes with the oregano for a touch of heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve instead of a green salad?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or even a light pasta if you want a more filling meal.

Dinner

Chicken Bake with Garlic Croutons and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe