Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with delicious flavors that appeal to the whole family. The recipe typically features seared chicken seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce that enhances the overall taste.
The beauty of Chicken Mozzarella Skillet lies in its versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, or even adjusting the spices to suit your palate. The dish is cooked in a single skillet, which simplifies both preparation and cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones rather than fussing over dishes.
In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty dinner on the table that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. The melting mozzarella adds a creamy texture that complements the savory chicken and tangy sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, Chicken Mozzarella Skillet is a delightful recipe that promises to impress and satisfy.
Chicken Mozzarella Skillet
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut or pounded to thin cutlets
1/2 tsp garlic powder for seasoning the chicken
1/2 tsp salt for seasoning the chicken
1/2 tsp pepper for seasoning the chicken
1 tbsp olive oil for searing the chicken
4 oz buffalo mozzarella sliced
4 cloves garlic pressed, for the sauce
1 can crushed tomatoes 28 oz
1 tbsp Italian seasoning dried
1/2 tsp salt for the sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
Season 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. The chicken may not be fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Reduce heat to medium and add 4 cloves of pressed garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in ⅓ cup of chopped fresh basil.
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they’re coated with the sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece. Partially cover and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through (165°F/74°C).
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Top each chicken breast with a slice of buffalo mozzarella. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped fresh basil. Serve hot, spooning the creamy tomato basil sauce over each piece of chicken.