Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake is a hearty, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Known for her mastery of traditional British cooking, Mary Berry has created this recipe to combine simple ingredients with minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves the flavors of Italy but doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The dish features juicy chicken breasts paired with creamy mozzarella cheese, a tangy tomato sauce, and a sprinkling of herbs, all baked to perfection in one tray. It’s the type of meal that requires very little hands-on time but delivers a satisfying and flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

The recipe is designed with convenience in mind. It provides all the comforting flavors of a classic Italian bake, but without the complexity of traditional recipes. Instead of a long, drawn-out process, Mary Berry has streamlined it into a simple, midweek-friendly meal that can be thrown together in just a few minutes. The blend of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and rich tomatoes comes together in the oven, creating a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour. It’s a great option if you’re craving something filling but don’t want to spend the evening stuck in the kitchen.

Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts (4 pieces) – The heart of this dish, the chicken breasts are tender and juicy when baked, soaking up the flavors of the tomato sauce and cheese. You can use skinless and boneless chicken breasts for ease of cooking and slicing.
2. Mozzarella Cheese (250g) – Fresh mozzarella adds a rich, creamy texture and mild flavor that melts beautifully during the baking process, forming a gooey, cheesy layer on top of the chicken.
3. Cherry Tomatoes (300g) – Sweet cherry tomatoes are roasted alongside the chicken, bursting with juicy flavor that complements the savory mozzarella and tender chicken. They add a natural sweetness and tang to the dish.
4. Tomato Passata (250ml) – Passata is a smooth tomato puree, which forms the base of the sauce. It’s thick and rich, giving the dish a full-bodied tomato flavor that balances the creaminess of the cheese and the savory chicken.
5. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – A little drizzle of olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding depth of flavor to the sauce and helping the tomatoes cook down into a delicious, rich consistency.
6. Garlic Cloves (2, minced) – Garlic imparts an aromatic depth to the dish. When sautéed with olive oil, it creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
7. Onion (1, finely chopped) – Onion adds sweetness and a savory backdrop to the sauce, creating a perfect balance with the acidity of the tomatoes.
8. Fresh Basil (a handful, chopped) – Basil adds a fragrant, fresh note to the dish, bringing a hint of Mediterranean flavor. You can sprinkle it over the chicken before baking or stir it into the sauce for added aromatic appeal.
9. Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – A sprinkle of oregano gives the dish that signature Italian flavor that pairs so well with the mozzarella and tomatoes.
10. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the chicken, sauce, and the overall dish. Adjust these to your preference to bring all the flavors together.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake, the following equipment will be essential:

1. Baking Dish – A medium to large baking dish, ideally around 9×13 inches, to hold the chicken, tomatoes, and sauce. You want a dish that’s deep enough to allow the ingredients to meld together but shallow enough to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Frying Pan – For sautéing the garlic, onion, and simmering the tomato sauce before adding it to the baking dish. A large, non-stick frying pan will make it easy to cook everything without sticking or burning.
3. Chopping Board – For chopping your onion, garlic, and basil. A good, sturdy chopping board will make prep work easier and safer.
4. Sharp Knife – A sharp chef’s knife will ensure you can slice and chop your ingredients quickly and efficiently. It’s essential for neatly chopping vegetables and herbs.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce and sautéing the ingredients. A wooden spoon helps prevent the sauce from burning or sticking to the pan.
6. Grater – If you’re using block mozzarella, a grater will help you shred it into smaller, melt-friendly pieces. Alternatively, if using pre-sliced mozzarella, this is unnecessary.
7. Tongs or Forks – For turning the chicken breasts in the frying pan and for checking if they’re cooked through before adding the sauce and cheese.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake

1. Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas 6. This ensures the oven is hot and ready to cook the dish evenly.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic – Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens and turns golden. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce – Pour in the tomato passata, followed by the dried oregano and some salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly.
4. Cook the Chicken Breasts – While the sauce simmers, heat a little olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. They will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked at this stage.
5. Assemble the Dish – Place the cooked chicken breasts in your baking dish. Spoon the tomato sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken, then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. If desired, sprinkle a little more dried oregano or fresh basil on top for added flavor.
6. Bake the Dish – Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling, and the chicken is fully cooked through. You can check the chicken’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer (it should reach 75°C/165°F).
7. Garnish and Serve – Once the dish is out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with a side of vegetables, salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips And Tricks

• Chicken Variations – If you prefer, you can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs. They’re slightly juicier and can hold up better in longer cooking times, though they may need a bit more time in the oven to cook through.
• Mozzarella Substitutes – While mozzarella is ideal for this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gruyère, or goat cheese. Just make sure you’re using a cheese that melts well.
• Boosting Flavor – If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. It’ll give the dish a little kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Make It Ahead – This dish can be prepped in advance. Prepare the chicken, sauce, and assembly up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake as directed.
• Vegetarian Option – For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with aubergine (eggplant) slices or mushrooms. Both will absorb the sauce and flavor beautifully.

Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake is the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and convenience. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it ideal for any night of the week when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella is sure to delight everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this recipe delivers comfort food with a touch of elegance-Mary Berry’s signature style.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake

Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake is a perfect go-to dish for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and the sweet, tangy goodness of tomatoes in a simple yet delicious casserole-style bake. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. With a few tweaks and swaps, you can customize it to suit different dietary preferences, available ingredients, or just mix things up to keep your family’s taste buds intrigued.

1. Vegetarian Version (Tomato & Mozzarella Bake)

   • If you want to skip the chicken or create a vegetarian-friendly alternative, you can substitute the chicken breasts with plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms. Mushrooms, especially portobellos, make an excellent substitute, as they have a hearty, meaty texture that can hold up to the bake. Simply slice them thickly and arrange them on the bottom of the dish before layering on the cheese and tomatoes.

2. Using Different Cheeses

   • While mozzarella is the star in this recipe, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. For example, cheddar can add a sharper, more robust flavor, or you could mix in some parmesan for a salty, nutty kick. Feta cheese would bring a tangy, crumbly element that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes, or you could try goat cheese for a creamier, tangy finish.

3. Swap Out The Tomatoes

   • The recipe calls for cherry tomatoes, but you can switch them up depending on the season or your preference. For a sweeter taste, you could go with sundried tomatoes or grape tomatoes, both of which pack a punch of flavor. If you’re craving more depth, try roasted red peppers or even a mixture of tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.

4. Spicy Kick

   • To add some heat to the dish, incorporate a fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce or sprinkle over the top before baking. The rich, comforting layers of chicken, mozzarella, and tomato are perfectly balanced by a touch of spiciness. If you want to take it up a notch, drizzle some sriracha over the top right before serving.

5. Adding Greens

   • To make this bake even more wholesome, you could add some spinach, kale, or zucchini slices. Adding spinach not only boosts the nutritional value, but it also enhances the flavor with a slightly earthy, fresh note. Zucchini, when thinly sliced, will melt into the dish, providing moisture and subtle sweetness.

6. Baking With Herbs

   • While basil is an obvious choice to pair with the mozzarella and tomato combination, you can experiment with other herbs too. Thyme, oregano, or even a bit of rosemary can add aromatic depth. A sprinkling of fresh parsley just before serving provides a pop of freshness and color. If you want a more Mediterranean touch, try adding some oregano and basil in combination with oregano-flavored breadcrumbs on top for a satisfying crispy crust.

Storing Leftovers

This dish is not only delicious fresh from the oven but also makes excellent leftovers that can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to preserve it and keep it tasting great for days to come:

1. How To Store

   • Cool it down: After baking, allow the dish to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before storing. This prevents any bacteria growth and ensures you keep the texture of the food intact.
   • Use airtight containers: Place the leftovers in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and preserve the flavor. If you’re storing the entire dish, a deep casserole dish with a tight-fitting lid works best. For individual portions, smaller containers are more efficient and easier to reheat.

2. Refrigeration

   • Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The chicken and cheese retain their flavor and texture quite well, but be mindful that the tomato layer may soften over time. To reheat, pop it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to ensure the chicken is heated through and the mozzarella melts again.

3. Freezing

   • If you’re planning to store it longer, you can freeze Mary Berry’s Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for best results. The only downside to freezing this dish is that the mozzarella can sometimes become a bit grainy when reheated, so it’s worth considering that if you plan on storing it long-term.

4. Leftover Chicken Ideas

   • If you’re just storing the chicken (perhaps as a separate component), it can be added to other dishes the following day. Use it in a salad, toss it in a wrap with some fresh greens, or make a simple sandwich with the leftover mozzarella.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake?

While this dish is hearty on its own, it’s often nice to pair it with sides that complement its flavors and balance the richness of the cheese and chicken. Here are some excellent options:

1. Green Salad

   • A fresh, crisp green salad is an excellent counterpoint to the rich, warm bake. Try a simple salad with mixed greens, arugula, or baby spinach, and top it off with a light vinaigrette or lemon dressing. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creamy mozzarella and balances out the dish beautifully.

2. Garlic Bread

   • You can’t go wrong with garlic bread alongside a cheesy, baked chicken dish like this. The crispy, buttery bread makes a perfect vessel for soaking up any extra sauce from the bake. You could opt for store-bought garlic bread or make your own by spreading garlic butter on fresh baguette slices before baking them in the oven.

3. Roasted Vegetables

   • Roasting vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or parsnips creates a sweet, caramelized contrast that complements the savory flavor of the bake. A mix of root vegetables roasted with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will enhance the dish’s depth.

4. Rice Or Couscous

   • For a more filling side, serve the bake with a bed of fluffy rice or couscous. These grains soak up the sauce well and provide a neutral base that allows the flavors of the chicken and mozzarella to shine. You can even flavor the rice with some lemon zest or herbs for a bit of extra dimension.

5. Sautéed Greens

   • Spinach or broccoli sautéed with a touch of garlic and olive oil would make a nutritious addition. The slightly bitter notes of the greens balance out the rich flavors in the main dish, adding a touch of freshness and texture.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake is a true testament to how simplicity can yield extraordinary results. With its tender chicken, melted mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. Whether you choose to get creative with variations, store it for later, or serve it with flavorful sides, there are endless possibilities for enhancing and enjoying this meal.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability-whether you’re cooking for a family, need to make a vegetarian swap, or simply want to add your personal touch, it’s a dish that can evolve without losing its core essence. Plus, its ability to be enjoyed as leftovers adds both convenience and value. So, go ahead and enjoy this delightful bake however you like-there’s no wrong way to savor it!

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, a selection of herbs such as basil and oregano, garlic, olive oil, and a simple tomato sauce. The dish is usually served with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad to complete the meal.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake?

The preparation time for Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella and Tomato Bake is approximately 10-15 minutes. The dish requires about 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven at 200°C (180°C for fan ovens), making the total cooking time around 40-45 minutes. This makes it a great option for a quick and easy midweek meal.

Can I Substitute Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Midweek Chicken Mozzarella And Tomato Bake?

Yes, you can substitute several ingredients in this recipe. If you prefer a different cheese, you can replace mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free alternative. You can also use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, you can use canned chopped tomatoes or passata. For a more flavorful dish, you can add a dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of parmesan before serving.