One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet

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This One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and hearty meal that comes together in under 30 minutes! Featuring juicy chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and savory Italian seasonings, this dish is perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner. With just one pan, minimal cleanup, and ingredients you likely have on hand, this meal is a go-to for busy nights. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh basil, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  2. Heat the pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
  3. Sear the chicken: Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Making the Sauce:

  1. Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Add tomatoes and seasoning: Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Simmer: Stir in chicken broth and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.

Bringing It All Together:

  1. Return chicken to the skillet: Place the seared chicken back into the sauce.
  2. Simmer: Cover and let cook for 7-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  3. Add cheese: Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan, then cover for 2 minutes until melted.

Serving:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
  2. Enjoy: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Italian Chicken Skillet

  • Use Fresh Garlic: It enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Remove it from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Make It Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
  • Balance the Acidity: If the sauce tastes too tangy, add a teaspoon of sugar.

Creative Variations

  • Spicy Italian Chicken: Add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
  • Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
  • Mediterranean Style: Add olives and capers for a briny flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving. Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. What’s the best way to reheat? Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Can I use chicken thighs? Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy. This One Pan Italian Chicken Skillet is a perfect, fuss-free meal that’s loaded with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it tonight!

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