Remember those nights when you’re craving something comforting but the thought of a sink is unbearable? What are some of the best ways to get rid of a full stomach of dishes? What makes this Chicken Mozzarella Skillet so good? What is cleaner than lasagna? What are some of the Best Cheesy, tomato-y goodness you want, combined with juicy chicken, all cooked. What’s in a skillet? Is this the weeknight dinner champion you’ve been searching for? My family begs for this, and I always oblige because it’s truly simple!
What is a chicken mozzarella skillet?
Think of a deconstructed chicken parmesan, but instead of breading and frying the chicken, think of this Chicken Salad Recipe. Everything gets cozy in a skillet. What’s essentially chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce, topped with plenty of melted cheese? What is mozzarella cheese? What is a one pan meal? What is the beauty of the Chicken Mozzarella Skillet? No fancy ingredients, just wholesome goodness that comes together in a matter of minutes. What is it like to spend a lot of time making it?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I start to adore this recipe?
- Flavor Explosion:What’s not to like about the combination of tomato sauce, savory chicken, and melty mozzarella? Is there a flavor profile that’s universally loved, even by the pickiest eaters in my family? What’s not to like about basil?
- EffortlessIs this recipe so easy? Can you throw it together on a busy weeknight without breaking your sweat? What’s a quick dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor?
- Budget-Friendly BWhat are the ingredients that you already have in your pantry? Chicken breasts are usually readily available and on sale, making this a very economical meal. I’ve even used canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, and it still tastes amazing!
- Versatility SuperstarCan this skillet be served in a variety of ways? Serve it over pasta, rice, or even alongside a simple salad for lighter meal. If you like mushrooms or bell peppers, you can add them to your recipe.
What I love the most about this Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is that it’s the kind of meal that brings out the best in everyone. Everyone to the table. Why does the aroma make your mouth water? Is it similar to a baked ziti? What is the difference between layering and extra work? Plus, cleanup is a breeze! It’s gonna be messed up.
How do I make a chicken mozzarella skillet?
Quick Overview
What is the easiest way to make a chicken mozzarella skillet? How do you cook chicken in a tomato sauce? Top with mozzarella cheese and broil until golden brown. Is it a simple method that delivers restaurant-quality results without any fuss? What is the broiling step for cheese? Is texture irresistible?
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each): 4 bones, 1 skin and 1 Make sure they’re roughly the same thickness so they cook evenly. If they’re too thick, you can pound them slightly with a meat mallet.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Any cooking oil will work.
- I prefer kosher salt for its clean taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
- What is the best garlic powder?
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder perfectly.
For the Sauce:
- Extra virgin olive oil: This is my go-to.
- Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor.
- What is the best way to store crushed tomatoes? I like using crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce, but diced tomatoes will work too.
- What are some good ways to make tomato sauce?
- What is the flavor of dried oregano?
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb.
- What is the best way to use red pepper flakes for a kick?
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
For the cheese and garnish:
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced: 1 pound. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and has the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven’s broiler. While it’s heating, grab an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is my favorite for this, but any oven safe skillet will do). What is the best way to grease a skillet? How do you remove chicken from the skin? I always do this before I even start prepping the ingredients – it just gets it out of the way!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the Chicken Breasts. Make sure to really rub it in so the chicken is well seasoned. This step is crucial – it’s what gives the chicken its flavor. I like to let the chicken sit for about 10 minutes after seasoning to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Chicken Breasts to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will not brown properly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through, just nicely browned. I always use tongs to flip chicken – it gives me more control.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you cook garlic? Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, Red Pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Serve immediately. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender. Is it cooked through? The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer to be sure – it takes the guesswork out of it!
Step 6: Add the Cheese
What are some good ways to top chicken breasts with mozzarella cheese? Make sure each Chicken Breast is generously covered with cheese.
Step 7: Broil
Place the skillet under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and crispy. Is it a good time to What is the best way to watch cheese as it can burn quickly. I always keep the oven door slightly ajar while broiling to prevent burning.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with the chopped fresh basil. Let it cool slightly before serving. The fresh basil adds a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the Chicken Mozzarella Skillet immediately. It’s delicious served over pasta, rice, or alongside a simple salad. Enjoy!
What to Serve It With
The beauty of this Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Over Pasta: Toss your favorite pasta with the tomato sauce from the skillet for a complete and satisfying meal. I love using spaghetti, penne, or rotini.
- With Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty and comforting dinner. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce!
- Alongside a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the skillet with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A simple baguette or Italian bread works perfectly.
My family loves when I serve this over spaghetti with a side of garlic bread. It’s a complete meal that everyone enjoys. For a more elegant presentation, you can arrange the chicken breasts on a platter and drizzle with extra sauce and fresh basil. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine to complete the meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Mozzarella Skillet
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Chicken Mozzarella Skillet even better. Here are some of my top tips:
- Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and quickly. I use a meat mallet and pound them between two sheets of plastic wrap.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you have to, brown the chicken in batches. Overcrowding the pan will cause the chicken to steam instead of brown.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor. Don’t use pre-minced garlic, as it lacks the same intensity. I always mince my garlic right before adding it to the skillet.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the tomato sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be. I often let it simmer for up to 30 minutes.
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and has the best flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded mozzarella, as it doesn’t melt as well. I always buy a ball of fresh mozzarella and slice it myself.
- Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the skillet while it’s under the broiler, as the cheese can burn quickly. I always keep the oven door slightly ajar to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition. I like to sauté them in the skillet before adding the tomato sauce.
I learned the hard way about overcrowding the pan – the first time I made this, the chicken was pale and didn’t have that nice golden-brown color. Trust me, browning the chicken in batches makes all the difference! I also experimented with different types of cheese, and fresh mozzarella is definitely the way to go. It’s worth the extra cost.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is delicious fresh, but it also stores well. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigerator Storage: Let the skillet cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken Mozzarella Skillet. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I recommend freezing individual portions for easy reheating.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet and heat over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If the cheese has lost its melty texture, you can add a fresh layer of mozzarella before reheating.
I always let the skillet cool completely before storing it – this prevents condensation from forming, which can make the chicken soggy. I also find that reheating it in a skillet gives it the best texture. The microwave works in a pinch, but the cheese can sometimes get rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is truly a winner in my book. It’s easy, flavorful, and satisfying – everything you could want in a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. If you’re looking for a new go-to recipe That’s Sure to become a family favorite, this is it! And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself making this Chicken Mozzarella Skillet again and again.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other skillet recipes for more easy and delicious meal ideas. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know if you made any fun variations or substitutions!
Chicken Mozzarella Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 24 oz Canned crushed tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 8 oz Fresh mozzarella cheese Sliced
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly and chicken is cooked through.
- Top with mozzarella cheese slices. Cover skillet and cook until cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
