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Mozzarella Chicken

A cozy, cheesy skillet meal featuring juicy chicken simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning
  • 4 pieces small boneless skinless chicken breasts or 6 to 8 cutlets Aim for even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 pinch smoked paprika Optional, adds warmth.
Cooking Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon butter For searing chicken.
  • 1 small onion or shallot Chopped, adds sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, for depth of flavor.
  • 14 ounces crushed tomatoes or marinara Choose low-sodium for better control of salt.
  • 1-2 tablespoons chicken broth To loosen sauce.
  • 1 splash balsamic vinegar or pinch of sugar Balances acidity.
Topping Ingredients
  • 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella Sliced or shredded. Fresh mozzarella works but is more watery.
  • 1 handful fresh basil or parsley Chopped, for brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pound or slice the chicken to even thickness. Pat dry and season on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Transfer to a plate.
  2. Lower heat to medium. Cook chopped onion for 2 to 3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add a splash of chicken broth. Add balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  4. Nestle the seared chicken back into the sauce and spoon some sauce on top. Cover and simmer for 4 to 6 minutes until the chicken is almost done.
  5. Top each piece of chicken with mozzarella. Cover again for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and starting to brown, or slide the skillet under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Finish with chopped basil or parsley and a few cracks of pepper. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Notes

Serve with garlic bread, pasta, rice, or a quick salad. Leftovers reheat well and the sauce tastes even better after sitting. Can be prepared ahead and finished later.