This 30-minute mozzarella chicken skillet is quick and tasty! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with gooey mozzarella cheese and fresh tomatoes, bringing everyone to the table.
Cooking this dish feels like magic, especially when the cheese melts! I love serving it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you prefer a different cut, thighs work well too. They are juicy and a bit richer in flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a lovely flavor. However, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil if that’s what you have. Each will work well for cooking the chicken.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is perfect for giving the chicken an Italian flair. If you don’t have it on hand, you can make your own mix using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
Marinara Sauce: Jarred marinara is easy and quick. If you’re looking to cut down on sodium or prefer fresh flavors, make a simple sauce from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s easy to adjust depending on your taste!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using provolone or fontina. You can even try vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few simple steps can help ensure it is perfectly cooked and tender. Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat before adding the oil. This ensures the chicken starts cooking evenly.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they’re uneven, pound them to a similar size before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain proper heat and ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This gives you perfect chicken every time!
How to Make 30-Minute Mozzarella Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and seasoning the chicken, and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This adds great flavor to the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Then, flip them over and cook for another 5-7 minutes, making sure they are fully cooked through (the inside should reach 165°F or 75°C).
3. Add Marinara Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken in the skillet. It’s important to make sure all the chicken is coated in that delicious sauce!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully, giving you that gooey texture you want.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your cheesy chicken with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve immediately, and if you want, spoon some extra marinara sauce from the skillet over the chicken for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. Thawing in the fridge overnight is best, or you can use the quick method: place the sealed chicken in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for the Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can use any tomato-based sauce, such as pizza sauce or a simple homemade mixture of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Adjust the seasoning to taste to maintain flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool completely first, then seal tightly. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Skillet?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the marinara sauce in step 3. Just sauté them first for a few minutes until slightly tender before adding the sauce, allowing everything to meld deliciously.
