Quick Chicken Mozzarella
Try the tasty meatless option with eggplant.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, thin-cut, about 4 oz. each
garlic powder, optional
Salt and black pepper, optional
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 can (14.5oz.) Del Monte® Diced Tomatoes, not drained
1 can (6oz.) Contadina® Tomato Paste
½ tsp. dried basil [or 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil]
mozzarella cheese slices, 1 to 2 slices per serving
Season chicken on both sides with garlic powder, salt and pepper, if desired.
Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5 minutes on each side.
Combine diced tomatoes and tomato paste in a medium bowl. Pour over chicken; cover and cook 5 minutes.
Place 1 or 2 slices of cheese over each chicken breast; sprinkle with basil. Cover and cook over medium heat 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve as a sandwich or a topping for pasta, rice or couscous.
VARIATIONS: Prepare recipe as directed, except:
-For HOT ITALIAN SANDWICHES, cut a French bread loaf into 4 pieces; slice each piece in half. Brush inside with olive oil and toast in a 350°F oven. Spoon some sauce over bottom half of bread, top with prepared chicken or eggplant. Top melted cheese with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of dried red pepper flakes, if desired.
-For QUICK EGGPLANT MOZZARELLA, prepare with a large 1 lb. eggplant, cut lengthwise into 4 slices, instead of chicken breasts.TIPS:
-If chicken breasts are very large, slice 2 large chicken breasts in half horizontally to about 1/2-inch thick to create 4 pieces.
-ADJUST THE FLAVOR OF THE SAUCE TO YOUR TASTE: If too tart or acidic, add 1/4 tsp. sugar and stir well. If too bland or sweet, add 1/4 tsp. red wine vinegar and stir well. Taste and repeat as necessary, adding 1/8 tsp. sugar or vinegar at a time until the right balance is achieved.