Can I use a different cheese?

Yes — Gouda, cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella all melt well and create a nice crust.

How to make the chicken more moist?

Don't overbake it — stick to the recommended times. You can also add a little water or broth to the bottom of the dish.

No, you can skip it or replace it with dried herbs like oregano or basil for a milder flavor.

How long does it take in different ovens?

Check for visual cues: the chicken should be golden, and the cheese melted. It may take 20–30 minutes depending on your oven.

Chicken fillet with tomatoes and cheese cap

Name: Chicken fillet with tomatoes and cheese cap
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 порции
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: Chicken fillet — 200 g; Mayonnaise — 40 g; Garlic — 3 g; Tomatoes — 100 g; Semi-hard cheese — 100 g

40min

443g

Nutrition per 100g

175

Imagine juicy chicken breast baked with tomatoes and a melty cheese crown — a true classic for a cozy dinner. Tender chicken, sweet tomatoes, and a gooey cheese topping create a perfect flavor combination. Quick to prepare, no fuss, and always a crowd-pleaser.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

From ingredients

5 products

Meat

Sauce

Vegetables

Cheese

Semi-hard cheese100 g

SIMPLE PROCESS

Step by step recipe

The secret to this dish is evenly pounded chicken and a cheesy crust that stays put. Pound the breast to an even thickness for consistent cooking. The garlic mayo adds flavor and moisture, while thick cheese slices melt into a golden "cap" without running off. Bake the meat first, then add tomatoes and cheese for a perfect finish.

Step 1

Prep the chicken breast

Rinse the chicken breast (200 g / 7 oz) and pat dry. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch (1–1.5 cm) thickness on both sides.

Step 2

Make the sauce

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise (40 g / 2.5 tbsp) with minced garlic (3 g / 1 clove). Stir until smooth.

Step 3

Coat and bake

Place the chicken in a baking dish (or on foil). Spread the sauce evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes.

Step 4

Add tomatoes and cheese

Remove from oven. Slice tomatoes (100 g / 3.5 oz) into rounds and cheese (100 g / 3.5 oz) into thick rectangles. Arrange them over the chicken.

Step 5

Finish baking

Return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

CHEF'S TIP

Pound the chicken evenly

Cover the fillets with plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness — this ensures even cooking and juiciness.

Use firm, ripe tomatoes

Choose dense, meaty tomatoes — they won't release too much liquid and will hold their shape during baking.

Don't overcook the chicken

Total baking time should not exceed 25 minutes — 15 minutes for the meat, then 5–10 minutes with toppings. That's plenty.

Let it rest before serving

After baking, let the dish rest for 5 minutes — the juices redistribute, and the meat becomes even more tender.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Add your taste

Swap chicken for turkey Turkey breast has a similar texture and low calories — use the same amount and cook for the same time.
Replace mayo with sour cream or Greek yogurt For a lighter sauce, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with garlic — it cuts calories and adds a tangy freshness.
No tomatoes? Try zucchini or eggplant Slice zucchini or eggplant into rounds — they add a different but equally delicious flavor.
Use mozzarella or feta instead of semi-hard cheese Mozzarella gives a stretchy texture, while feta offers a salty Mediterranean kick.

HOW TO STORE

How to Store Chicken with Tomatoes and Cheese

Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes or in the microwave — the cheese will soften. Freezing is not recommended, as tomatoes release liquid and the texture changes.

GOOD TO KNOW