Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Name: Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 4 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts; 1 lemon, juiced; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1.5 cups halved cherry tomatoes; 1 bunch green onions, cut into 1/2-inch slices; 0.5 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons coarse-grained mustard; 1.5 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped; 0.5 bunch fresh thyme, chopped; 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese

Cook Time: 40 minutes

This Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breast recipe is inspired by the southeastern region of Provence in France. It combines fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a simple yet flavorful dish. The cherry tomatoes add a natural sweetness, while the creamy Gruyre cheese melts over the chicken for a comforting finish. Its easy to prepare, and the chicken bakes with the tomatoes, green onions, chicken broth, and cheese, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Heres how to make it:

Ingredients

5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cups halved cherry tomatoes
1 bunch green onions, sliced into -inch pieces
cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons coarse-grained mustard
1 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
bunch fresh thyme, chopped
2 cups shredded Gruyre cheese

Directions

Step 1: Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil into a shallow platter and place the chicken breasts on top. Rub them evenly with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken breasts for about 4 minutes per side, or until each side is browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.

Step 4: Place the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced green onions in the prepared baking dish. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables.

Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the mustard, rosemary, and thyme. Brush this mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts.

Step 6: Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the tomatoes and green onions in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyre cheese over the chicken.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165F (74C) when inserted into the center of the chicken.

Step 8: Serve your cheesy tomato baked chicken with rice, potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 690
Total Fat: 42g (54% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 15g (74% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 207mg (69% Daily Value)
Sodium: 807mg (35% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 6g (2% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 71g (142% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 24mg (27% Daily Value)
Calcium: 619mg (48% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (14% Daily Value)
Potassium: 686mg (15% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary based on your individual calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information may vary based on ingredient choices and serving sizes. If you're following a medically restrictive diet, please consult a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

History of Origin

Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breasts trace their culinary roots to the rustic traditions of southern France, where farm-style meals often combined fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and locally produced cheeses. While not an ancient dish, it reflects the evolution of Provenal home cooking, influenced by the regions love for sun-grown vegetables and simple methods that highlight natural flavors. Over time, the recipe gained popularity for its balance of tenderness, acidity, and richness, becoming a favorite among modern home cooks seeking comforting yet elegant meals.

Regional Features

The dish carries the unmistakable character of Provence, known for its aromatic herbs and Mediterranean produce. Ingredients like rosemary, thyme, and cherry tomatoes speak directly to the regions agricultural abundance. The use of Gruyre, although more common in eastern France, adds a creamy contrast that enhances the herbal brightness. This blend of regional influences creates a dish that feels distinctly French but approachable for everyday cooking.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike other baked chicken dishes that rely on heavy sauces or cream-based mixtures, this recipe showcases a lighter structure built around fresh herbs and broth. It also differs from classic tomato-braised chicken by incorporating a finishing layer of melting cheese, which adds texture and depth without overwhelming the flavors. The quick searing step sets it apart from simple oven-only recipes, helping the chicken retain juiciness and develop a caramelized surface.

Typical Serving Occasions

Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breasts are commonly served as a cozy weeknight meal or as a refined yet uncomplicated weekend dinner. In many households, it appears on the table during family gatherings or informal celebrations because it offers both convenience and a touch of sophistication. The dish pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, or seasonal vegetables, making it easy to adapt to different meal styles.

Interesting Facts

One intriguing detail is that this recipe reflects the growing trend of combining traditional French techniques with modern minimalismfavoring fewer ingredients of higher quality. Another fun fact is that Gruyre, while famously Swiss, is widely used in French cooking for its excellent melting properties. Additionally, the combination of mustard and herbs used in this recipe is inspired by old Provenal marinades originally created to tenderize tougher cuts of meat. Over the years, this method transitioned into lighter dishes like chicken, producing the flavorful variation enjoyed today.

FAQ about Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Store any leftover Cheesy Tomato Baked Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until fully heated through.

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Place them in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

While Gruyère cheese provides a great flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Swiss cheese, cheddar, or mozzarella. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly depending on the cheese you choose.

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal.

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The cooking time might vary slightly, so make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

If you don't have fresh rosemary and thyme, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for the equivalent of the fresh herbs in the recipe.

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, making this recipe suitable for vegetarians or those who prefer a plant-based option.

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. You can assemble everything in the baking dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. When you're ready to cook, simply bake it as instructed.

While searing the chicken adds flavor and helps keep it moist, you can skip this step if you're short on time. The chicken will still cook through and be flavorful, but the texture might be slightly different.

Comments

Carolyn Perez

04/13/2025 05:57:23 PM

Delicious! The fresh thyme and rosemary added such wonderful flavor. My husband declared it his all-time favorite chicken dish that I've made!

Anna King

08/14/2023 06:17:49 AM

This dish lacked any flavor, so I won't be preparing it again.

Raymond Gomez

10/16/2023 04:40:34 AM

I was able to easily adjust the recipe for two servings. I prepared one to freeze and one to enjoy for dinner. Thank you for providing a delicious meal option. Cooking for just myself can sometimes be a bit of a drag, but this recipe was perfect and budget-friendly.

Eric Cruz

01/09/2024 02:36:08 PM

I opted for vegetable broth, dairy-free cheese, and Gardein plant-based chicken in this recipe.

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Crab Mac and Cheese Recipe

View Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Creamy Garlic Pasta Recipe

View Recipe

audio version

Cook Time: 50 minutes