It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast.
This High Protein Mozzarella Chicken Skillet is your new secret weapon. It is warm, cheesy, and ready in no time. Your whole family will ask for seconds tonight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights. It packs plenty of protein to keep you full. The cleanup is very easy since it uses one pan.
It feels like a treat but stays healthy. You can serve it any time of year. It is perfect for a quick healthy reset when life gets busy.
Simple Method
Cooking this meal is very simple and fast. You just season the chicken and sear it. Then you let it simmer in red sauce. The cheese melts right on top at the end. Even beginner cooks can master this dish easily.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples you already have. Fresh basil adds a lovely bright finish.
- 18 oz Boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 0.5 tsp Kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Low-sodium marinara sauce, no sugar added
- 0.5 cup Shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil, sliced
Step-by-Step
- Season the chicken cubes evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir occasionally until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the marinara sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Cover the skillet for 2 minutes or broil for 90 seconds to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm while the cheese is bubbly. It pairs perfectly with zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta. You can also enjoy it with a simple side salad. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free meal together.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for three days. This dish is great for easy weekday lunches. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat. You can also use a microwave for a quick warm-up.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip the fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Avoid crowding the pan so the chicken sears properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt.
- For a healthy reset, use a sugar-free marinara sauce.
- Double the batch if you are feeding a larger crowd.
- Swap the chicken for turkey breast if you prefer.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Stir in some fresh spinach for extra greens.
- Use dairy-free mozzarella to make it vegan-friendly.
- In summer, swap marinara for fresh cherry tomatoes.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra zing.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop and season the chicken in the morning. This makes the evening cooking process even faster. Just store it in the fridge until ready.
Can I use frozen chicken?
You can use frozen chicken if you thaw it completely first. Pat it dry before seasoning to get a good sear. This ensures the texture stays tender and golden.
Will my kids like this?
Most kids love the combination of chicken, red sauce, and cheese. It tastes like a healthy version of pizza. It is a picky-eater friendly winner every time.
I hope this cheesy chicken skillet makes your busy weeknights a little easier. It is so satisfying to have a healthy meal on the table fast. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
High Protein Mozzarella Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
- 18 oz Boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 0.5 tsp Kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Low -sodium marinara sauce, no sugar added
- 0.5 cup Shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil, sliced
Instructions
- Season the chicken cubes evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, stirring to ensure even coating.
- Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid for 2 minutes or place under a broiler for 90 seconds until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
