Mediterranean Tomato and Mozzarella Hasselback Chicken
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table with this vibrant and delicious Hasselback chicken recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are carefully sliced and stuffed with layers of sun-ripened tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Oven-baked to perfection and finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano, this dish is as beautiful to serve as it is easy to make. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 large ripe tomato, thinly sliced
1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
A handful of fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: balsamic glaze, fresh parsley, or olives
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board.
Using a sharp knife, make deep slits across each breast (about 1 cm apart), being careful not to cut all the way through.
Season:
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil.
Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and minced garlic if using.
Stuff the slits:
Alternate slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil leaves into each slit in the chicken.
Bake:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 75°C / 165°F) and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving.
Pair with a side salad, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use even-sized chicken breasts so they cook uniformly.
Cut carefully: Use a sharp knife and place a wooden spoon or chopstick on each side of the chicken to avoid slicing all the way through.
Fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor and texture.
Pat the chicken dry before cutting—it helps the seasoning stick better.
Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
Delicious Variations
1. Pesto Hasselback Chicken
Add a teaspoon of pesto in each slit along with the mozzarella and tomato for extra flavor.
2. Mediterranean Veggie Mix
Include thin slices of zucchini, red onion, or roasted red pepper between the tomato and mozzarella for a veggie-packed twist.
3. Olive & Feta Topping
Sprinkle chopped olives and crumbled feta cheese over the chicken before baking for a Greek-style variation.
4. Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a slice of jalapeño in the slits for heat lovers.
5. Low-Carb Stuffing
Replace tomatoes with thin slices of sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor and fewer carbs.
Q&A
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes! You can assemble the chicken (cut, season, and stuff it) a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Q: What’s the best way to cut the slits without slicing all the way through?
A: Place chopsticks or wooden spoon handles on either side of the chicken breast to act as a guide. This stops the knife from going all the way down.
Q: Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella slices?
A: You can, but fresh mozzarella slices give a creamier texture and better presentation. If using shredded cheese, press it gently into the slits.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Great options include:
Couscous or quinoa
Roasted Mediterranean vegetables (zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant)
Garlic sautéed spinach
Mixed greens with balsamic dressing
Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Cook at 180°C (350°F) for about 18–20 minutes, checking for doneness. Make sure the chicken fits well and air can circulate for even cooking.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). The juices should run clear when pierced.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~310 kcal
Protein: ~38g
Total Fat: ~16g
Saturated Fat: ~6g
Carbohydrates: ~3g
Sugars: ~2g
Fiber: ~0.5g
Cholesterol: ~110mg
Sodium: ~270mg
Calcium: ~150mg
Iron: ~0.7mg
Note: Values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used (especially cheese and oil).
Conclusion
Mediterranean Tomato and Mozzarella Hasselback Chicken is a flavorful, healthy, and visually impressive dish that’s easy to prepare. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and heart-healthy fats, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The simple prep and quick cook time make it ideal for busy schedules, while the ingredients offer flexibility for creative variations. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just craving a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired meal, this dish delivers both taste and nutrition.