Description
Pizza Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12-16 slices of pepperoni
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken: Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked).
Add the sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly.
Layer the toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast, then top with 3-4 slices of pepperoni.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 380 kcal per serving
#PizzaChicken #LowCarbMeals #ComfortFood #OnePanRecipe #EasyDinnerIdeas
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect one-pan meal. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and pat the chicken breasts dry. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken with olive oil, then coat it evenly with the spice blend. Heat your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes before adding the chicken. Sear without moving for a full 4-5 minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust before flipping. Once flipped, immediately reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning. After the second side is seared, remove the skillet from the burner to assemble.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its rich flavors. For a low-carb option, serve over a bed of zucchini noodles or with a crisp Caesar salad. To make it a more indulgent comfort meal, offer warm garlic knots or a side of roasted rosemary potatoes. A light, acidic side like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken breasts in an oven-safe skillet. Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well. Adjust the initial searing time to 5-6 minutes per side due to their higher fat content, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
My skillet isn’t oven-safe. How can I adapt the recipe?
After searing the chicken, transfer it to a baking dish. Add the sauce and toppings to the chicken in the dish and bake as directed.
How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure you do not overcook during the searing phase—it should not be fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer to pull it from the oven at exactly 165°F is crucial.
What are some alternative toppings?
Feel free to add sliced mushrooms, black olives, green peppers, or onions when adding the sauce. For a different cheese, try a provolone and mozzarella blend.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can season the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to 8 hours. For best results, sear and bake just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using a skillet that is not oven-safe, as the handle can be damaged or cause injury.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing, as this steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Resist the urge to overcook the chicken during the searing step; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Do not skip preheating your skillet before adding the chicken, as a hot pan is essential for a proper sear.
- Avoid using too much sauce, which can make the dish soggy; one cup is sufficient for four breasts.
Conclusion
This Pizza Chicken Skillet is the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics, delivering maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. It’s a versatile, family-friendly recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying, cheesy dinner in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it proves that you don’t need takeout to enjoy the hearty taste of pizza. Give this easy one-pan wonder a try for your next meal.