Mozzarella Chicken Skillet with Savory Tomato Basil Sauce
Juicy chicken simmered in tomato basil sauce and topped with melted mozzarella creates a comforting one-skillet dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden, then remove from the skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes until nearly cooked through.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the chicken.
- Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese melts and the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Finish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes & Wine Advice
Notes
For the best melting texture, use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-packaged cheese. If the sauce thickens too much during simmering, add a small splash of chicken broth to loosen it without diluting flavor. Allow the chicken to rest briefly before serving to help retain its juices.Wine Advice
A medium-bodied Chianti pairs beautifully with the tomato basil sauce, while a Sangiovese offers bright acidity that balances the richness of the melted mozzarella without overwhelming the dish.Nutrition values
Calories: 520 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10 g | Protein: 45 g | Fat: 32 g | Saturated Fat: 13 g | Sodium: 700 mg | Sugar: 4 g