This is going to sound corny, but my dad Fred has had a major influence on my love of cooking and food. Growing up my mom would cook during the week delicious home cooked meals, but as I’ve gotten older my dad has been known to make some beautiful signature dishes as well. 

This next recipe draws heavy from his style - every time I think of Chicken Parm, I think of my father. He has been known to bake this dish by the pan, often cooking for families that might be going through a hard time and could use a little comfort food.

This cheesy tomato chicken dish comes together in about 30 minutes and can be made with marinara, but I like to make a simple tomato sauce with capers and my favorite, garlic! I am serving over orzo and broccoli, but choose any starch and vegetable that strikes you! This dish feeds two, so simply double the recipe for a family of 4. 

To make this cheesy tomato chicken you will need: 

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 cloves garlic

1 tbsp capers

4 oz fresh mozzarella 

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp whole dried oregano

Crushed red pepper flakes

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Roughly chop the capers and garlic, and cut the mozzarella into thin slices. Make the sauce by heating a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot, then add the chopped garlic, capers, oregano, pepper flakes, tomato paste, and 1/2 cup of water. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until combined and slightly thickened. Turn off the heat, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place in a small baking dish and top with sauce and sliced mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through; keep a close eye during the final five minutes to make sure the mozzarella is gently browned but does not burn.

Prepare the starch and vegetables while the chicken is cooking, and serve stacked or juxtaposed. Enjoy!

claire Stabbert is an accomplished cook who loves to try new recipes. While she does enjoy eating at restaurants, she also loves to whip up a good meal at home. Claire gets some of her cooking inspiration from her grandfather and grandmother, Fred and Shirley Stabbert as well as Great Grandma Nellie.