Name: Mozzarella Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced or grated; 1 15 oz crushed tomatoes (or your favorite marinara); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon pepper; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (small-medium); 8 oz mozzarella (fresh or shredded); fresh basil (to garnish)

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If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dish to serve on a busy weeknight, the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is your answer! Picture this: you come home after a long day, and you want something comforting yet uncomplicated. This recipe allows you to whip up a creamy, cheesy chicken dish in just thirty minutes, which means more time for you to relax and enjoy. I often find myself craving this meal, especially during those hectic evenings when I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The aroma that fills your home while preparing this dish is enough to make anyone feel welcome and at ease.

The beauty of the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is its simplicity. With an incredible blend of fresh ingredients and just a few steps, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. I love how the melted mozzarella paired with juicy chicken and tangy crushed tomatoes creates a delightful harmony of flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests! Let me guide you through this delightful culinary experience.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Frying Pan, Skillet, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

The Beauty of This Mozzarella Chicken Skillet

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the standout features of the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is how quickly it comes together. You can have a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes! This makes it an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Full of Flavor

The combination of fresh ingredients like olive oil, onion, and aromatic garlic creates a base that is bursting with flavor. Add in the richness of melted mozzarella and the acidity of crushed tomatoes, and you have a dish that’s not just satisfying but also incredibly tasty.

Healthier Option

This dish is not only quick and delicious, but it’s also a healthier choice compared to many takeout options. Using lean chicken breasts, fresh herbs, and wholesome ingredients means you can enjoy comfort food without the guilt. It’s a great way to incorporate protein and vegetables into your diet.

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason to love the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is its versatility. You can serve it over a bed of pasta, alongside a simple salad, or even with a side of rice or roasted vegetables. Each option adds its own unique flair and complements the dish beautifully.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is also fantastic for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe, and it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer. This means you can enjoy the flavors of the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet throughout the week with minimal extra effort!

Shopping List for Mozzarella Chicken Skillet

When it comes to the ingredients for the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet, you’ll find they are simple yet impactful. Each component works together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. The star, of course, is the chicken, which absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce and spices. The fresh mozzarella adds creaminess, while the crushed tomatoes provide acidity and depth of flavor. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

2 tablespoons olive oil: A base for sautéing and adds richness.
1 onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and flavor.
3-4 garlic cloves, minced or grated: Adds aromatic depth.
1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes or your favorite marinara: Forms the delicious sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ teaspoon EACH garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper: Seasoning for depth.
4 small-medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source.
8 oz fresh or shredded mozzarella: For that cheesy topping.
Fresh basil, to garnish: Adds color and fresh flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Mozzarella Chicken Skillet

Cooking the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is an experience that intertwines aromas and flavors in your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful, cheesy dish in no time!

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This allows the oven to be hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and helps with browning.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-duty (oven-safe) skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot so that the oil shimmers before adding the next ingredient.
Add the onion to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until it softens and the edges become slightly golden. This caramelization enhances the sweetness of the onion.
Next, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter.
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are well coated in the sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they are lightly browned. This step helps to lock in the juices of the chicken.
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. This will allow the chicken to cook through, reaching an internal temperature of 165ºF.
Afterward, flip the chicken breasts over and top them with slices of fresh mozzarella or sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. You want the mozzarella to melt and become bubbly.
Once it’s done, remove the skillet from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately. The melted mozzarella will be gooey and delicious!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature matters: Always ensure your skillet is hot before adding ingredients to get that perfect sear on the chicken.
Watch the garlic: Garlic burns quickly; add it last to avoid bitterness.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, check that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
Garnish wisely: Fresh herbs like basil add color and elevate the dish’s overall flavor.

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is its adaptability. Here are some suggestions to customize it to your taste:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or sauté in a pan to retain texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: This dish goes well with a side of pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Vegetable additions: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for extra nutrition.
Spice level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cheese variation: Experiment with different kinds of cheese like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

What Goes Well With This Mozzarella Chicken Skillet

When it comes to serving the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet, you’ll find it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and occasions:

Pasta: Serve it over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine, allowing the sauce to cling to the noodles for a comforting meal.
Rice: A side of steamed rice complements the dish well, soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
Vegetable sides: Roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or zucchini, add color and nutrition to your plate.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Seasonal pairings: In the summer, you can accompany it with a light tomato salad, while in winter, a warm bread can be the perfect addition.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the skillet will not allow for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or use the defrost setting on your microwave before proceeding with the recipe. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy!

The Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. You can serve it over pasta for a comforting meal or alongside rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad makes for a refreshing complement, and roasted vegetables add a nutritious touch. Choose whatever you enjoy the most!

Leftovers of the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before storing to maintain freshness. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove to enjoy it again!

Yes, the Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is a great option for meal prep! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooking it the next day will not compromise its flavor. You can also freeze the cooked dish for up to two months for an easy meal later on!

Conclusion

The Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor that makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. With just a few basic ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it a regular in your meal rotation. Your family and friends will love it!